Trendpills
An Indiana man charged with murder in the fatal shooting of a house cleaner who mistakenly arrived at his home has been released from custody after a judge set his bail. Curt Andersen, 64, of Whitestown, posted a $50,000 cash bond on Friday following a Boone County court hearing.
The incident occurred on November 6, when Maria Florinda Rios Perez De Velasquez, 32, and her cleaning crew went to Andersen's home by mistake. Andersen called 911 to report a possible burglary in progress. Prosecutors allege that shortly after the call, Andersen fired through his front door, striking and killing Rios Perez De Velasquez, who was on the porch. Responding officers found her deceased at the scene.
During the recent hearing, Judge Matthew Kincaid granted the defense's request for bail, setting the amount that allowed for Andersen’s release. He now faces charges of murder and voluntary manslaughter. According to court records, Andersen's trial is scheduled to begin on March 10.
Andersen’s defense attorneys argue that he acted in self-defense, believing that his home was being broken into. However, Boone County Prosecutor Kent Eastwood has countered this claim. Eastwood stated that Andersen's actions were not reasonable, emphasizing that he shot through a closed door without visually confirming an imminent threat. Details from the investigation into the fatal shooting of the house cleaner suggest the cleaning crew members never attempted to force entry into the residence. Following the judge's decision, Andersen was released after posting the required bond, a move that has drawn public attention as the case proceeds toward trial.
