Cheong was arraigned before Judge Noah Powers, who set the bond. Prosecutors asked for a $1 million bond saying he had concealed evidence in the case and is a flight risk.
Defense attorney Laura Woodruff said Cheong knew there was an ongoing investigation in the case, “he has more that ample opportunity to run in this case and he will not.”
Cheong is scheduled to be back in court for a pre-trial hearing on April 21.
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Katherine Lobono, 23, died of multiple gunshot wounds and suffered other injuries, including ligature marks on her neck, according to the Butler County Coroner’s Office report.
Lobono was discovered dead lying on the floor of her apartment at the Villages of Wildwood off Ross Road in Fairfield by friends who were dog-sitting, according to a 911 call. Her death occurred Oct. 1.
Lobono suffered three gunshot wounds. A bullet and bullet jackets were recovered from the body. A seven-inch ligature mark was found on Lobono’s neck during the autopsy.
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Lobono had a “possible bite mark” on her right forearm and multiple contusions and abrasions on her right knee.
Blood and a shell casing were found at the scene, according to the 911 call.
Lobono’s family was in court for the hearing wearing “Kady’s Unicorn Squad” T-shirts. They declined comment.
“We maintain his (Cheong’s) innocence and look forward to having a trial,” Woodruff said.
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