Missoula Man Accused of Killing His Mother Gets $2 Million Bail

Missoula, MT (KGVO-AM News) – A Missoula man, 21-year-old Miles Otis Miller, was arraigned in Missoula District Court on Tuesday afternoon before Judge Leslie Halligan on charges of Deliberate Homicide and felony Tampering with or Fabricating Physical Evidence in the murder of his mother, Taeko Miller.

At his arraignment, Judge Halligan delineated the charges to Miller, who appeared via ZOOM from the Missoula County Detention Center.

The first count was Deliberate Homicide, the Second was Tampering with Evidence

“The first count is deliberate homicide,” began Judge Halligan. “This is a felony offense punishable under Montana law by life imprisonment or not less than 10 or more than 100 years at the Montana State Prison. The next count in the information is a charge of tampering with or fabricating physical evidence. This as well is a felony offense punishable by 10 years at the Montana State Prison and or a $50,000 fine.”

Judge Halligan tied the charges to the death of Miller’s mother, which occurred on May 13.

“These charges arise out of allegations of conduct on May 13^th,” she said. There or about on May 13 of 2023 and I know that you will have an opportunity to review the charges in greater detail now with your counsel.”

The Judge Addressed Miller’s Attorney about the Charges

Judge Halligan addressed Miller’s attorney regarding the charges and his pleas before the court.

“Miss Anderson, I’m wondering if you’ve had a chance to review these charges and also Mr. Miller’s rights with him prior to today’s hearing,” she asked.

“We did, Your Honor, we’re percent here to proceed with not guilty pleas today to both charges,’ said Ms. Anderson.

“All right,” replied Judge Halligan.  “Mr. Miller, is that correct that you wish to enter not guilty pleas to both of these charges?”

“That is correct; not guilty, replied Miller.

“So the not guilty pleas will be entered”, said Judge Halligan.

Judge Halligan then addressed the matter of bail.

Miller Entered Pleas of ‘Not Guilty’ for Both Counts

“Mr. Miller, bail was initially set by another judge in our District, Judge John Larson, and in the amount of $2 million,” she said. “Today is not necessarily the purpose of addressing that bond that was found that was previously set. But I will ask your counsel whether or not any other issues need to be addressed.”

“Your Honor,” Ms. Anderson replied. “We would just like to reserve the bond argument for a later time.”

“It will be noted for the record,” said Judge Halligan.

Miller’s next appearance will be for an omnibus hearing before Judge Halligan on Wednesday, July 19 at 1:30 p.m.

Miller’s bond remains at $2 million, and he was returned to the Missoula County Jail.