Charles Thomas Helms

MURDER SUSPECT MAKES BOND AFTER REDUCTION BY JUDGE

By Jon Mayhew
Publisher

MAIDEN -- A Catawba County man in jail on charges of murdering a Lincolnton resident June 29 got his bond reduced during a preliminary court hearing Wednesday.


David Neal Pulliam

Charles Thomas Helms, 27, of Maiden had his bond reduced to $100,000 by a judge. Helms is accused of punching David Neal Pulliam, 36, in the face over Helms' contention that Pulliam was blocking the view of a band. The blow was so severe that Pulliam was rushed to Frye Regional Medical Center in Hickory, where he later died.

According to Major Coy Reid with the Catawba County Sheriff's Office, the altercation happened June 29 at The Silver Bullet on Highway 27 south.

Wednesday, Helms' lawyer argued that since Pulliam's death came as the result of one punch, his client (Helms) didn't intend to kill Pulliam. The attorney maintained bond should be reduced so Helms oculd go back to work for his father's trucking and hauling business as the principal driver.

The judge agreed wtih Helms' attorney.

When Helms posts bail, he will be placed under electronically monitored house arrest and restricted to working during daylight hours. He also can't use, possess, sell or consume alcohol or any controlled substances.

Reid said Helms must also submit to urinalysis to monitor his behavior. A probation officer will be in charge of monitoring Helms.

Helms was charged with "unspecified homicide" and may be indicted within the next 60 days. When Helms is indicted, the charge will be specified and a trial date will be set.

According to Reid, Helms posted bail on Thursday morning and was released from jail.

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