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Suspect waives hearing in Basalt ethnic intimidation case

Staff report

An Old Snowmass man facing charges of three felonies for what Basalt police called an ethnic attack waived his right to a preliminary hearing Wednesday.

Jerry Cunico, 47, will be asked to enter a plea Oct. 19 in Eagle County District Court.

Cunico allegedly attacked another man in the Orchard Plaza parking lot, outside the El Jebel City Market, at 8:17 p.m. Aug. 23. Basalt police said their investigation indicated Cunico attacked a Hispanic male who was sitting in his vehicle scratching off lottery tickets. Police could find no link between the men and said the attack was unprovoked.



Cunico allegedly struck the victim numerous times and broke bones in his face. He was restrained by people passing by until police arrived.

Cunico was charged with three felonies: Trespass 1, automobile, with intent to commit a crime; second-degree assault; and bias-motivated crime to cause bodily injury.