Three Sentenced In District Court Wednesday Morning

Clarence Schonemann, Dennis Statler and Randal Colman

Three men were sentenced in separate district court cases on Wednesday morning.

Clarence Schonemann, Dennis Statler and Randal Colman were each sentenced in Antelope County District Court by Judge Mark Johnson.

Clarence Schonemann
Schonemann was sentenced to probation for 18 months on the charge of terroristic threats, a class IV felony. He previously pleaded no contest. The charge stems from an incident in which the defendant was arguing with his mother-in-law and returned "brandishing a firearm," according to Antelope County Attorney Joe Abler. His mother-in-law took the stand and said she forgave him and was praying for reconciliation. 

Schonemann's attorney, Pat Carney, said his client never pointed the weapon at anyone or threatened anyone's life. "He just asked her to leave them alone and get out of their lives," Carney said.

Judge Johnson said he understands Schonemann's frustration; however, he chose to deal with it unlawfully.

"You brought out a gun for a specific purpose...to threaten your mother-in-law," he said.

In addition to probation, the judge ordered Schonemann to serve 7 days in the Antelope County Jail immediately (90 days total were ordered, but may be waived by the probation officer) and pay $317.05 in court costs. Typical probation and testing fees were also ordered, as were the conditions: no use or possession of alcohol, non-prescription drugs or firearms.

Dennis Statler
Statler was sentenced to probation for 24 months on the charge of attempted theft by unlawful taking, a class IV felony. He previously pleaded guilty.

The charge stems from an incident in which Statler stole a John Deere Gator and a car less than 24 hours after going airborne over the Highway 14 viaduct and having his SUV burst into flames. "He is presently under the care of a mental health professional," said Carney, his attorney in the case. He concluded that his client would benefit from continued help and recommended a term of probation.

Judge Johnson agreed and placed Statler on probation and recommended that he see the appropriate mental health professional. In addition, he was ordered to serve 180 in jail (waiverable by probation officer); pay $145 in court costs; and pay restitution to Jeremy Borer in the amount of $82.75. Typical probation and testing fees were also ordered, as were the conditions: no use or possession of alcohol, non-prescription drugs or firearms.

Randal Colman
Colman was sentenced to 364 days in the Antelope County Jail on the charge of driving under the influence of alcohol (DUI) - third offense aggravated, a class IIIA felony. He previously pleaded guilty.

"It is our actions, not our words, that show what our real intentions are," Judge Johnson said. "You are in need of correctional treatment."

In addition to incarceration, the judge ordered Colman to pay a $2,000 fine and $365.82 in court costs; and revoked his driver's license for 15 years.