The man charged with a brutal attack in Wrightsville Beach last weekend made his first appearance before a judge Thursday.
Twenty-eight-year-old Hugh Sandlin appeared via video from the New Hanover County Jail. His bond was increased to $150,000. Sandlin faces felony charges.
Police said he has admitted to attacking Jud Gee early Saturday morning. Detectives said Sandlin told them he thought Gee was someone else when he attacked him and took his bike.
Gee remains in critical condition and in a coma. His family said they want justice.
"We're angry, but we're relieved the man's been caught,” said the victim’s brother, Carlyle Gee. “We know he can't harm anyone anymore. We're just hoping the system will do what it's supposed to do and put him behind bars for as long as possible."
If Sandlin posts bond, he will be electronically monitored at his father's house in Jacksonville, and regularly tested for alcohol.
Sandlin's next court date is October 8th where he will faces charges of assault with a deadly weapon and assault inflicting serious injury.
Assault
I am so happy for the Gee family that the man was caught. I truly know how they feel. I was a victim of a horrible beating but the guys that did it to me got off with a hand slap. They were charged with assault with a deadly weapon with intent to kill (a piece of wood)and kidnapping. They took me down to the water way and left me to die. It was by the Grace of God I survived. They got around two years time. I pray that Judd lives, comes out of the coma. Sincerely,Terry D.