Fargo, Cass County (trfnews.i234.me) — A judge set $5 million cash-only bail for a 21-year-old Fargo man accused of killing 25-year-old Isadora Wengel.
Charges filed
Joshua Alexander Hite appeared in court on Friday for his initial appearance.
He was arrested on Feb. 10, authorities said.
Hite faces charges of murder and other counts.
Those include tampering with physical evidence.
He is also charged with giving false information to law enforcement.
Why prosecutors asked for high bail
Prosecutor Derek Steiner asked for the high bail amount.
He cited the seriousness of the allegations.
He also raised concerns about flight risk.
Steiner told the court the alleged actions after the death were alarming.
Prosecutors said investigators recovered a saw blade during the case.
They said it contained DNA and other evidence linked to Wengel.
Authorities allege Wengel was dismembered.
They say her remains were disposed of in unknown locations.
Claims of deception after the death
Prosecutors also described alleged efforts to mislead investigators.
They said Hite lied to officers during the investigation.
They also said he used Wengel’s phone after her death.
Prosecutors said messages went to Wengel’s family.
They said the messages suggested she was still alive.
Prosecutors said digital forensics found searches about using aliases.
They said that added to flight risk concerns.
Steiner also said Hite carried a firearm to a meeting with investigators.
Judge sets cash-only bail
Judge Constance Cleveland granted the state’s request.
She set bail at $5 million cash-only.
The defense did not object, according to reports.
The judge said the bail amount can be reviewed later.
Next court date
A preliminary hearing is scheduled for March 11 at 9 a.m.
Search continues for evidence
Wengel was last seen at a Walmart in Fargo on Jan. 3.
Her family reported her missing on Jan. 7.
Authorities say her body has not been recovered.
Fargo police continue to ask for help locating a black storage tote.
Anyone with information is asked to call the Fargo Police Department at 701-451-7660.
Police also accept tips by text.
Text “FARGOPD” or “WFPD” and your tip to 847411.
I’m Chris Harper reporting for TRF News.