Anthony Cobos makes first appearance in Dona Ana County courtroom on fraud charge

Anthony Cobos made his first appearance in a New Mexico courtroom on Monday by teleconference on a charge of felony fraud, a second degree felony punishable by 9 years in prison.

Magistrate Judge Beverly Singleman maintained his bond at $50,000 but changed it from a cash bond to a secured bond, meaning he must pay 10 percent or $5,000 to a bail bondsman for his release.

A bondsman would assure his appearance in future court proceedings.

Cobos has hired defense attorney Jeff LaHann of Las Cruces.

Cobos may only leave Dona Ana County with the permission of the court if he bonds out.

The only comments Cobos made to the judge during the hearing was that there are many flaws in the information regarding the case against him.

Cobos seemed surprised that he cannot leave Dona Ana County, asking “I cannot leave Dona Ana County?”

Cobos also asked if he would be able to speak to his attorney today.

Cobos’ attorney did not speak to us as he left to meet with members of Cobos’ family.