Accused Cheyenne Strangler Being Held on $10K Cash Bond

A 50-year-old Cheyenne man is facing a felony charge after allegedly strangling a household member.

According to a booking sheet, police arrested Troy Lane Samsel at a home in the 3900 block of East 8th Street at 3:06 p.m. on Sunday, Nov. 30.

Get our free mobile app

Samsel was booked into the Laramie County Detention Center and subsequently charged with strangulation of a household member - applying pressure on the throat or neck, a felony punishable by up to 10 years in prison.

Initial Court Appearance

On Tuesday, Dec. 2, Samsel was seen in Laramie County Circuit Court in front of Judge Antoinette Williams on the charge.

Williams appointed Samsel a public defender and set his preliminary hearing for Thursday, Dec. 11, at 2 p.m.

Williams then asked for the state's position regarding bond.

"The state would be recommending $15,000 cash in this matter," the state said. "This is a violent felony."

"Also, your honor, there's allegations that Mr. Samsel was intoxicated during this event," the state added. "A review of his criminal history indicates that he has had difficulty maintaining his sobriety in the past. I would note a few contacts for DUI. The state would be recommending in addition to that cash bond that he enroll in the 24/7 program."

Samsel asked Williams if there was any way he could get a surety bond.

"I have eight grandkids. With the holidays coming up, I would sure like to see them here in town," he told Williams. "This is my first violent offense I've ever been accused of and please, your honor, I'm begging the court."

Bond Set at $10K Cash

"Based on the nature of the offense, the court is going to set your bond at $10,000 cash," Williams told Samsel. "If you post that, I'll set your bond conditions. Otherwise, go ahead and give the Public Defender's Office a call tomorrow or Thursday and your bond can be readdressed at your preliminary hearing."

Please remember that all defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty.