DA Mulroy Releases Statement on Court's Bond Decision for Defendant in St. Jude Doctor's Death

“On yesterday (June 18) in Criminal Court Division 2, counsel for Marious Ward petitioned the Court for a bond hearing.  The Defendant is charged with the killing of Alexander Bulakhov, a St. Jude doctor, in downtown Memphis, in front of his family on November 12, 2023. 

This is a violent gun crime against an innocent person with overwhelming proof. Our Office argued to the Court that the Defendant is a danger to the community, that the facts of the case are egregious, that the likelihood of conviction is exceptionally high, and that expected punishment equals or exceeds a life sentence.  The Court rejected these arguments and set bail at $275,000. 

As argued in Court, we believe this bond amount is insufficient and does not appropriately weigh the severity of the crime, the likelihood of conviction, and the danger to the community. We remain committed to this case and to justice and will ask the Court for a trial date. The case is next set for Jul 25, 2024. While we respect the court's decision, we strongly believe that the Defendant, while presumed innocent, should be held in jail pending trial.”