Nurse linked to child sex-abuse case pleads not guilty

After fighting for almost three months, saying law enforcement got the wrong person, the third defendant in a high profile child sex-abuse case was extradited from Pima County, Arizona, to Santa Cruz County to face trial.

She was booked in to Santa Cruz County Jail at 12:30 a.m. Thursday.

In court, 30-year-old Emily Stephens turned away from TB cameras, only looking up occasionally to answer the judge’s questions or talk with her attorney.

Stephens, former Santa Cruz brain surgeon James Kohut, and Watsonville nurse Rashell Brandon are accused of sexually assaulting children as young as 3-years-old.

Each is facing charges that could put them behind bars for life.

Stephen’s faces eight felony counts, including child molestation.

“She denies these charges. It is her intent to continue to deny these charges,” said Brian Worthington, representing Stephens.

Kohut and Brandon have also pleaded not guilty.

Santa Cruz County Deputy District Attorney Steven Moore wanted a $6 million bail for Stephens.

“We just think that based on the severity of the charges, and the fact that she is an Arizona resident makes her a concern that the $600,000 isn’t appropriate,” Moore said.

Stephens’ lawyer argued his client is not a flight risk.

“A judge has already reviewed the bail issue and set it at what is the appropriate amount. We are going to be arguing that it should stay there,” Worthington said.

For now, the amount remains at $600,000.

Her next bail hearing is scheduled for Sept. 6th.

It will also be the first time for the three defendants to appear in court together.