Sandlin appears before judge after brutal Wrightsville Beach attack

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.