A self-proclaimed reporter with links to the Malheur Refuge occupation was arrested Friday by the FBI on weapons charges. Michael Ray Emry made his initial appearance in Federal Court in Eugene today (Monday).
Michael Emry entered the courtroom in shackles. Magistrate Judge Jolie Russo asked if he wished to accept a court appointed public defender. Emry nodded and then mumbled ‘yes.’
The defendant is charged with unlawful possession of a machine gun that is not registered to him and unlawful possession of a firearm with an obliterated serial number. Both counts carry a 10-year sentence.
Judge Russo asked if the defendant wished to enter a not guilty plea. After a nod from Emry, his lawyer replied, “Yes, Your Honor.”
On Friday, FBI agents seized a fully automatic machine gun during a warranted search of Emry’s 5th wheel trailer in Grant County. He was arrested and held in the Deschutes County Jail before being transferred to Eugene.
Michael Emry was a constant in Harney County during the 41-day armed stand-off at the refuge. He reported for “The Voice of Idaho,” a pro-Bundy website he created. In court, there was no mention of the occupation or Emry’s involvement in it. The judge ordered Emry to remain detained citing flight risk and danger to the community.
A status hearing for Michael Emry is scheduled for May 16.
