GRAND JUNCTION, Colo. — A man facing charges for allegedly attacking a reporter in Colorado has been reported to have a long history of mental health issues, according to his attorney.

The individual, Patrick Egan, 39, is charged with assault, bias-motivated crime, and harassment related to the incident involving Ja’Ronn Alex, a reporter for KKCO/KJCT. This altercation occurred on December 18 outside the television station in Grand Junction, which is located approximately 240 miles (390 kilometers) west of Denver. Alex has explained to law enforcement that he felt he was being pursued by Egan, who was identified as a taxi driver, and believes he was assaulted due to his Pacific Islander heritage, as per court records.

During a court session on Thursday, Egan’s attorney, Ruth Swift, revealed to the judge that Egan has been grappling with mental health challenges for nearly two decades, and he is currently undergoing treatment, as reported by KREX-TV. Swift did not respond to a request for comment on Friday.

Swift mentioned that Egan has access to mental health support, including therapy services and emergency crisis assistance. She also highlighted that he has friends willing to support him and ensure he maintains his well-being if he is released from custody.

In court, one of Egan’s supporters, Ben Wilson, expressed his shock at the accusations leveled against him. He described Egan as being akin to family, stating, “I have five kids and he’s like family. When I got the news of what happened, I thought, ‘That’s not Patrick.’”

Judge JenniLynn Lawrence subsequently denied Swift’s request to reduce Egan’s bond, which stands at $20,000 in cash. The judge expressed her concerns regarding the safety of the community, citing Egan’s job loss as a driver and his potential as a “significant community safety risk.” She also raised doubts about his commitment to attending future court proceedings.