Cuny, housemates plead innocent to misdemeanor charges

Cuny and three of his housemates were arrested Dec. 13 at their central-Tucson home after a neighbor complained a loud party they were hosting continued past 1 a.m.

The four men missed their original Dec. 23 court dates, and warrants were issued for their arrest the next day.

John Gregory Evans, 21, also entered a not guilty plea Friday to Judge Eugene Hayes. Malcolm Paul Davies, 22, and Johann Emmery, 22, were arraigned Thursday and also pled innocent.

If convicted of disorderly conduct, the men could each face as much as six months in jail or a $2,500 fine, according to state law. A failure to appear conviction could add up to four months in jail or a $750 fine.

Cuny and Evans said Friday that they will try to enter the court's diversion program, which would dismiss the charges after the students completed a series of group sessions.

The diversion program costs $165 and the number of sessions the students would be required to attend is determined by a judge.

Cuny said he was pursing the diversion program to avoid having a criminal record.

"For having a party, I (will have) to pay $200," Cuny said. "Maybe we'll add the $200 fee to our cover charge for our Valentine's Day Party."

Evans said he was glad the situation is almost resolved.

All four men have pre-trial conferences scheduled for March 10.