Home invasion suspects appear for arraignment

by Mindy Aguon

Guam - Two men and a 16-year-old who are charged in connection with a brutal home invasion in Piti appeared before Magistrate Judge Alberto Tolentino today.  Raymond Tedtaotao, Anthony Paul Mendiola and Kyle James Cruz are accused of forcing their way into a Nimitz Hill home.  Tedtaotao allegedly tied a woman up and beat her leaving her unconscious while the teen gathered clothes and a camera and Mendiola stole two laptops from the house.

The victim sustained serious brain trauma and underwent neurosurgery as a result of the beating. Today Mendiola pled not guilty to the charges and asserted his right to a speedy trial. Public Defender Eric Miller represents Tedtaotao and said, "We'll waive reading of the indictment enter a plea of not guilty, demand all discovery and Laxamana notes, a jury of twelve and he is asserting his right to a speedy trial."

Mendiola and Tedtaotao are scheduled to appear back in court next week Tuesday for a criminal trial setting in front of Judge Maria Cenzon. 

Cruz meanwhile was appointed an attorney and is scheduled to answer to the criminal charges next Wednesday.  All three are being held behind bars on $500,000 cash bail.