Guam – Hansen Helicopter executives have been under the close watch of US Marshals since their conditional release. Conditions include no communication with witnesses or defendants in the case. But it appears that the restrictions on communication between the defendants may ground Hansen Helicopter from carrying out business as usual.
Kenneth Crowe, Marvin Reed, Phillip Kapp, and John Walker were placed on pre-trial release in the case involving Hansen Helicopter conspiracy and fraud.
Of the three individuals, only Walker was released with the ability to communicate with employees for business purposes, as long as the discussions do not include the case.
While the motion was made to assure the safe and federally compliant operation of the company’s fleet of helicopters, and to facilitate the continued employment of approximately 120 persons employed by Hansen, the bar on the communication of the other three defendants presents some challenges for the company.
As a result Crowe has requested a modification to his released conditions to allow him to communicate about business with Reed, Kapp, and Walker.
The motion says the restrictions have the potential to curtail Hansen’s efficient and safe operations and may result in a reduction in force at the company. The motion also cites the court’s authority to revise conditions of release to reasonably ensure the safety of the community.
While the communication stipulation usually pertains to any threats a defendant may pose to the community, Crowe states that, in this case, the safety of the community is related to the absolute need for Crowe, Reed, Kapp and Walker to communicate so Hansen Helicopters can fly safely for the protection of the public, as well as aircraft pilots.
A motion hearing has been set for August 20th.
