Banko released after Eastern rehabilitation

ODESSA — The local man who was arrested and pleaded guilty to felony harassment charges with threats to kill was released from custody.

Arthur James Banko, 68, was released from custody after pleading guilty to felony harassment with threats to kill.

The decision followed a lengthy legal process, which included competency evaluation and treatment at Eastern State Hospital in Medical Lake.

Banko was initially arrested on August 29, 2024, after allegedly threatening to shoot another man, cut his head off and place it on a fence post.

He was held on $100,000 bail after being charged in Lincoln Co...