ASHLAND, Ohio — For the first time since his arrest, a suspect in three murders appeared in front of a judge.
Shawn Grate, 40, was in court via video for a bond hearing Friday afternoon. He is facing two charges of murder and a count of kidnapping.
Prosecutors said Grate has a lengthy criminal record and asked for $1 million bond. The suspect told the judge the amount, “sounded fair.” He said little during the hearing, but appeared to be crying at times.
Police arrested Grate Tuesday after a woman he was holding hostage was able to get his cell phone and call 911. Once police arrived they found the two bodies.
Grate led police to a third body in Richland County.
The Richland County Prosecutor’s Office says no charges have yet been filed against Grate in that county. It also says charges will likely not be filed for some time until the identity of the victim found there is confirmed.
Police have confirmed that Stacey Stanley was one of the victims. Her family tells us they are devastated and are now hoping for justice.
A second victim, Elizabeth Griffith, was identified on Friday.
