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A man accused of a series of phone threats to local schools and businesses will have a do-over hearing next month to determine whether he can avoid criminal proceedings in lieu of mental health treatment.

The Humboldt County Superior Court will again hear the suitability of suspect Daryl Ray Jones for diversion, but under a different judge. This follows an otherwise identical hearing two weeks ago.

An appeals court found issue with Judge Timothy Canning’s denial of a motion by the District Attorney’s office, who sought to disqualify Judge Kelly Neel ahead of the hearing. Last week, this denial was overturned, and the court was ordered to grant the disqualification. Neel hadn’t yet issued a ruling on Jones’ diversion.

Canning was assigned to handle this upcoming hearing instead, he said in court today. It was scheduled for September 21.

Jones was previously held to answer to around 30 felonies and two stalking charges for allegedly calling in a deluge of threats that caused many local schools and daycares to go in lockdown in early 2025. He remains in custody and has pleaded not guilty.

In the last diversion hearing, a psychologist testified on Jones’ mental state, attributing the alleged criminal behavior to his depression. While he testified it wasn’t his psychological MO to actually follow through with any of the threats, the prosecution argued the risk of releasing Jones in the community where he allegedly called in explicit threats was too high.

Attorney Joanne Carter, who represents two anonymous victims, pushed for a court date the two could attend. Previously, victim impact statements and letters were submitted to the judge.

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