Bail denied for Tuscumbia murder suspect

TUSCUMBIA - A man charged with murder in the July 11 death of Edith Margarita Martinez was denied bond following a hearing today.

Victor Manuel Funez Cruz, 59, Muscle Shoals,, will remain in the Colbert County Jail with bail, Colbert County Circuit Court Judge Chad Smith ordered.

The body of Martinez, 59, Muscle Shoals, was found July 11 on the ground of McVantage Packaging LLC.

Tusucmbia police issued a complaint stating she was struck "in the head with blunt objects multiple times, ultimately causing her death."

In his order, Smith stated "there is no amount of bail and conditions of release to reasonably assure the defendant's appearance as required and that will eliminate or minimize the risk of harm to others or the public at large and would protect the safety of the community or any person."

Colbert County District Attorney Hal Hughston said the order was issued under Aniah's Law.

"We are pleased that Judge Chad Smith granted our Ania's Law motion keeping Mr. Cruz in jail until his trial," Hughston said. "This law is intended to lock up accused offenders who serve as a threat to our citizens."