Mason pleads not guilty in Tuesday arraignment

A short preliminary hearing for Garrett Mason, who faces charges on two counts of first degree murder in connection with the May 24 stabbing deaths of two Nevada teens, Anne Reed, 18, and Kylie Leyva, 14, was extended when the defense counsel requested that the tape of the hearing be confiscated from the cameraman from Fox 14 news. Judge James Bickel had approved the placement of the camera, with some restrictions. Defense argued the cameraman had violated those restrictions.

Bickel said that not only the requirements of C.O.R. (Court Operating Rule) 16 be followed but also imposed other restrictions.

"Your request for a pool camera for the arraignment of Garrett Mason has been approved, over the objections of the State and Defense Counsel," the ruling stated. "No pictures of anyone in Courtroom not involved in this particular case; no video of minors; the Defendant may only be shown from the back."

The main portion of the hearing consisted of Bickel reading the charges against Mason and accepting a not guilty plea from Mason's attorneys. Bickel adjourned the session and Mason was then led from the courtroom by a handful of Vernon County Sheriff's deputies.

At that point in the proceeding, the cameraman began to pack his camera in preparation for leaving but was informed by a deputy to come forward. One of the lawyers for the defense, Rebecca Elliston, told the judge she made a motion to seize his tape.

"Your honor, I move to seize the tape at this time for violating the agreement we reached during the motion hearing," Elliston said.

Bickel asked the cameraman if the tape could be viewed. When the cameraman said it could Bickel called the attorneys for both the defense and prosecution into chambers to view it. When the group came out the cameraman was allowed to go on his way with the tape.