Court grants continuance in Davidson case; judge outlines no‑bond release option and sets August trial date

Judge Ver granted a defense motion to continue the trial in the case of Paul Davidson after the victim’s guardian testified by Zoom that she could not easily travel from Florida because of childcare and work obligations.

Defense counsel explained the family lives out of state and that obtaining interstate subpoenas and cooperation from the governor’s office would be required for in‑person testimony. The guardian, identified in court as Melissa Santiago, told the judge she lives in Palm Bay, Florida, cares for the victim and three other children, has limited paid leave and lacks reliable childcare; she said she could testify by Zoom but could not easily travel if required.

The court said it would pursue interstate subpoenas and was inclined to grant a continuance. The judge also stated that if he were to grant continued release to the defendant pending trial, he would set an O bond (no bond) with conditions, including maintaining contact with counsel and continuing to reside in Henry County. The clerk recorded the conditions: the defendant must remain in contact with his attorney and maintain residence in Henry County.

The court set an initial trial window in mid‑August and recorded August 11 as the earliest potential trial date; the matter will be revisited at an August status call. The court advised counsel to pursue available subpoenas and to notify the court promptly about witness availability.

No formal sentencing or conviction occurred in this hearing; the record reflects only a scheduling/bond decision and an administrative order to pursue interstate subpoenas to secure witness testimony.