Despite the government's argument that Joplin dentist John Joseph's "crippling fentanyl addiction" made him a risk to public safety, Judge David P. Rush released Joseph on his own recognizance following a detention hearing this afternoon in U. S. District Court in Springfield.
Court records say Joseph agreed to conditions of his release, but federal courts do not allow public access to to bond information.
Joseph pleaded not guilty to unlawful transport of firearms during his initial appearance March 19.During that hearing, at Joseph's request, Judge David Rush appointed an attorney to represent him and to help him fill out an affidavit of financial status.
Court records indicate Joseph didn't need to have a government-appointed attorney, after all. He was represented by Nathan F. Garrett of Graves Garrett Greim LLC, Kansas City.
Graves Garrett Greim LLC is one of the most powerful firms in the state with its name partners including the lawyer representing Joseph and Todd Graves, former U. S. Attorney for the Western District of Missouri and brother of Congressman Sam Graves.