Bond for man accused of killing wife set at $2 million

A bail hearing was held Tuesday morning for Rodrigo Rodriguez, charged in the April 24th murder of his wife, Ruby Rodriguez.

Rodrigo allegedly stabbed his wife to death during an argument.

El Paso police found the victim’s body at their home in the 300 block of Apodaca Place and began searching for Rodriguez. Rodrigo was found hiding in a nearby field where officers took him into custody without incident.

Rodrigo reportedly waived his rights and allegedly told police he killed his wife. He has been at the El Paso County jail since his arrest.

Tuesday, Rodrigo stood quietly before Jail Magistrate Judge Penny Hamilton wearing an orange and white jumpsuit. A rabbit tattoo was clearly visible under his left ear.

Rodrigo’s defense attorney Ruben Ortiz asked Judge Hamilton for a PR bond for Rodriguez, claiming Rodriguez and his family had little money.

Assistant District Attoney James Montoya read Rodriguez’s long criminal history, which began in 2007 and continued through December of last year when he was charged with allegedly assaulting Ruby.

After taking a few minutes to inspect and read the charges filed against Rodriguez, Judge Hamilton addressed the defendant telling him he is entitled to a bond.

She then told him his bond would be $2 million, stating the bond would be split the following way: one-and-a-half million in cash or surety and the other $500,000 in a Personal Recognizance bond .

Montoya said it is not known if Rodrigo and his family can come up with the cash and surety to cover the amount of the bond.