Walla Walla man pleads not guilty to cyber harassment, judge maintains $50K bail
By Dan Thesman on Friday, August 28th, 2026 in Columbia Basin News Columbia Basin Top Stories
WALLA WALLA — A 43-year-old Walla Walla man accused of electronically harassing a former coworker through court Webex hearings entered a not guilty plea during his arraignment Thursday in Walla Walla County Superior Court.
Michael Conrad Mettler appeared in court before Judge Patricia Fulton, facing five counts – one count of felony cyber harassment and four counts of violation of an anti-harassment order, which are gross misdemeanors.
During the hearing, the court heard a victim impact statement from the targeted former coworker, who detailed the emotional toll and safety measures she has had to implement.
“I carry bear spray in my car, I have it on my nightstand, and unfortunately I purchased a non-lethal high-powered pellet gun because I felt the need to have some way to protect myself,” she told the judge, urging the court to keep Mettler incarcerated while the charges are pending.
A central point of contention focused on Mettler’s medical and mental health treatment while in custody versus his past behavior on furloughs. Defense attorney Julie Karl argued for Mettler’s release or a reduced $10,000 bail with a 10 percent cash option, stating the jail cannot provide several of his prescribed medications. Karl noted that Mettler suffers from severe mental health conditions and panic attacks, arguing that jail is not an appropriate environment and that past furloughs were intended to address his medical needs.
Walla Walla County Deputy Prosecuting Attorney Michelle Mulhern countered that Mettler has an extensive history of non-compliance and court order violations. The state noted that Mettler previously violated his furlough conditions “almost immediately” by consuming alcohol products and failing to complete required treatment programs.
Judge Fulton maintained Mettler’s bail at $50,000, citing concerns over public safety and potential court order violations. Mettler’s pretrial procedural hearing is scheduled for Sept. 10, with his trial set for Oct. 12.
