The woman arrested near Missoula last month for an incident out of Great Falls has now been formally charged with deliberate homicide, criminal endangerment, and criminal mischief.
Kelsey Staigmiller appeared in court in Cascade County on Monday for her initial hearing to set her bail in connection with the death of Sarah Bailey.
Reporter McKenna Dickey reports from the courtroom:
“I think this was very isolated, I don’t see any further risk to the community,” Staigmiller’s defense attorney said.
Staigmiller has been subject to about 18 arrest warrants since 2020, with seven of those being open at the time of Bailey's death.
According to Cascade County Attorney Josh Racki, Staigmiller does not have a felony criminal history in Cascade County.
Her defense requested that her $500,000 bond be reduced to $10,000.
“She is willing to wear a GPS or alcohol monitoring system, if possible," her defense argued.
Judge Elizabeth Best said, considering the severity of charges against her, the bond will remain at $500,000.
Staigmiller was initially charged with robbery on May 18 after reportedly carjacking Sarah Bailey and driving off recklessly as Bailey fought back, which ultimately resulted in Bailey’s death.
Staigmiller was later arrested in Missoula County after fleeing in Bailey's car.
Staigmiller pleaded not guilty during her court appearance on Monday. Staigmiller’s parents were in court, but declined an interview.
Bailey worked from her Central Avenue tattoo studio Sparrow & Arrows, for 11 years.
“She was an incredible human, she was a bright light, and she did not deserve to go this way,” said Julie Curtis, owner of Nosh MT.
Remembering Sarah Bailey:
Her friends say the legacy she leaves behind resonates loudly in the hearts of those who knew her.
“As far as our plans right now, it is our intention to make sure that the shop survives and thrives going forward and honors her legacy,” said Samantha Houston, Bailey’s previous apprentice.
Staigmiller's next court date is scheduled for Monday, June 16.
