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RENO, Nev. (AP) — A federal judge in Reno has set an emergency hearing Friday to determine whether one of the key suspects in an alleged prescription drug-trafficking ring should be released from jail because of his medical condition.
Richard "Richie" West II is the ex-manager of a Reno car dealership who was arrested during a federal raid last month. His lawyer David Houston says he was rushed to a Reno hospital after he was found lethargic in his county jail cell.
Houston argued last week the jail doesn't have the expertise to treat West's chronic back pain. He said continuing to hold him without bail amounted to "cruel and unusual punishment."
Judge Miranda Du said at that time West is threat to the community and a significant flight risk because he could be sent to jail for decades if convicted.
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