Bond reinstated for car dealer accused of raping teen girl at his Crosby dealership

HOUSTON

A judge Thursday reinstated the $100,000 bond for Melartin. His attorney says the bond was revoked last week because of a paperwork issue.

Melartin is accused of raping a girl at his dealership in Crosby. The girl and her mother worked for Melartin, and say they want justice, while Melartin's attorney says his client is ready to go home.

"It's been hard. It was hard to see him come out, but I'm confident that we will get justice. I'm confident in that," said the mother of the alleged victim.

Melartin's attorney, Jim Butler, said, "Happy that he gets to go back home. All the other emotions from one end of the spectrum to the other are still there."

Melartin and his assistant, George Koutani, are both also accused of fondling the 16-year-old at Melartin's dealership.
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