Judge Raised Bond for Accused Property Vandal

A judge increased Matthew Ammel's bond to $100,000 following alleged violations of his pretrial release conditions.

Updated on Oct. 12, 2026 in Property Crime

Judge Raised Bond for Accused Property Vandal

Matthew Ammel, a man accused of causing property damage at the home of Kyrsten Sinema, saw his bond increased by a judge at the Maricopa County Superior Court. The court action followed reports that Ammel violated release conditions by attempting to contact the victim and possessing weapons.

Why it matters

Prosecutors argued that the defendant poses a significant danger to both the victim and the community, citing his history of alleged violent behavior. The court move aims to ensure public safety while the criminal property damage case moves forward.

Judge Barbara Spencer set a $100,000 cash bond for the 39-year-old defendant during his arraignment. The court mandated house arrest and a weapons prohibition should he succeed in posting the bond.

The players

Matthew Ammel

He is a 39-year-old former Green Beret with reported brain injuries and PTSD who faces criminal charges.

Barbara Spencer

She is the judge presiding over the case at the Maricopa County Superior Court who ordered the bond increase.

Kyrsten Sinema

She is a victim in the property damage case who previously provided financial assistance for the defendant's bail.

The details

Ammel, who pleaded not guilty to property damage, was arrested after allegedly bringing a knife to a gun store on September 29. He previously faced felony charges in North Carolina in 2025 related to the alleged strangulation of medical staff and threats against a judge.

2025: Kyrsten Sinema posted the initial $25,000 bond for Ammel regarding North Carolina charges.
Mid-September 2026: Ammel was initially released with an ankle monitor.
September 29, 2026: Ammel was arrested at a gun store.
October 12, 2026: A judge raised the bond amount during a court hearing.

Legal Context

The decision to raise bail reflects a broader trend of judicial scrutiny regarding pretrial release conditions for defendants facing multiple serious criminal allegations. This case highlights how courts manage the risk posed by individuals who violate monitoring terms set in prior legal proceedings.

The increased bond ensures the defendant remains in custody unless significant financial conditions are met, addressing public safety concerns in the community. Residents and local businesses are advised that the judicial process for this matter is now active within the Maricopa County court system.

The takeaway

Judicial oversight remains a critical component in ensuring that defendants adhere strictly to the conditions of their release. Public safety is typically the primary factor courts weigh when reconsidering bail amounts following allegations of new misconduct or rule violations.