A 50-year-old Steele man accused of setting his own brother on fire made his first appearance in court last week and was arraigned on assault charges.
Richard Simmons appeared in front of Judge Byron Luber on a charge of assault in the second degree. His brother, Sandy, remains in critical condition in a hospital in Memphis.
Simmons was appointed a public defender by Judge Luber. His bond was set at $25,000, cash-only. He was given a preliminary hearing date of April 25 in front of Judge Luber.
Simmons was charged after Steele Police and fire responded to a call on South Walnut in Steele. Upon their arrival they found Sandy Simmons on fire, and after first aid was initiated, Sandy Simmons was transported to The Regional Medical Center in Memphis.
Richard Simmons remains in the Pemiscot County Justice Center in lieu of bail.