The latest hearing was held via Zoom at the Ramsey County Courthouse on Monday, Nov. 10 at 4 p.m. for ex-Devils Lake Police Officer Rey Hennen, who faces multiple felony charges including sexual assault. The hearing reviewed Assistant Attorney General Kathleen Murray’s filed responses to defense attorney Ulysses Jones’ own motions to determine the defendant’s fitness to stand trial as well as criminal responsibility, prompting Judge Anthony Benson to schedule another hearing on Monday, Dec. 22.
Judge Benson, who presided over the hearing remotely from the Bottineau County Courthouse, asked Jones if he wanted more time to respond to the prosecution’s response made within the past five days, as it was quite comprehensive, and included a motion for patient record disclosure. Jones acknowledged that he would like more time, as he hadn’t been able to review them with his client until the day of the hearing.
“We would also need time in order to address the state’s motion regarding the disclosure and use of patient records,” said Jones via Zoom from his office. “Because Mr. Hennen is in custody, I don’t have the freedom to be able to communicate, share documents … or drafts or anything like that.”
Murray, who appeared remotely from her office in Bismarck, had no problem with the request. “The State has no objection to allowing Mr. Jones as much time as he needs,” she said. “We know these are complicated matters and I had asked for time because I wanted to consult with the state hospital (in Fargo where Hennen has been held for observation).”
After deliberation by all parties, including Hennen (appearing remotely from Cass County Jail), Judge Benson scheduled the next hearing to respond to all motions filed by prosecution and defense on Monday, Dec. 22 at 4 p.m.
During an investigation by Devils Lake Police on Sept. 9, Hennen had threatened to shoot himself at his home. While making these threats, his children were present in the house, but they were removed without incident. Hennen was initially arrested under felony charges of reckless endangerment with a firearm and terrorizing of an adult victim. Later charges were added, including two counts of neglect of a child, deceptive writings, and burglary, all class C felonies, as well as class A misdemeanor charges of false information to law enforcement and stalking. However, Hennen’s most serious charge is gross sexual imposition by force, a class AA felony which carries a potential life sentence.
