Battery, Assault Suspects Who Evaded Judges For Months Get Reduced Charges

After skipping eight previous court dates, a former Eunice firefighter pleaded guilty for beating a homeless man outside of a bar two years ago.

Our news partner KATC, reported 29-year-old Ryan Deville pleaded guilty to simple battery today before Judge James Dougherty. He was originally charged with two felonies, second-degree battery and principal to aggravated assault with a firearm.

He and his brother Garrett Deville, also involved in the crime, have missed numerous court dates for months without consequences. A warrant for Ryan Deville's arrest was issued after he missed eight court dates but was recalled after he appeared in court five days later, KATC reported.

Garrett Deville, originally charged with aggravated assault with a firearm, missed seven court dates before appearing before Judge Gerald Caswell where he pleaded not guilty to a reduced charge of simple battery.