Man in court on threat charges Presque Isle suspect allegedly brandished gun in Ashland bar

ASHLAND – A Presque Isle man made his first appearance in District Court on Monday after allegedly brandishing two guns at a local bar and later firing a shot toward police who were on a manhunt for him.

Ricky Haines, 44, appeared Monday afternoon in Houlton District Court on two counts of criminal threatening. At the court proceeding, Haines’ bail was set at $20,000 surety or $5,000 cash.

Haines, who was unable to make his bail, remained Monday at the Aroostook County Jail in Houlton where he will await his next court date, set for Jan. 14, 2005, in Presque Isle District Court.

Cyr Martin, the acting Ashland police chief who is leading an investigation into the incident, was unavailable Monday for comment.

Haines was the main subject in a bar fight involving guns and a subsequent manhunt on Thursday night in Ashland, according to statements Martin made in a Friday interview.

Haines allegedly entered Freem’s Bar and Grill on Main Street in Ashland, and at about 11 p.m. became involved in a fight with another patron.

At some point during the fight, Haines allegedly pulled a revolver from a leg holster. Bar owner Freeman Deabay reportedly kicked the gun away. After Haines was subdued and left the bar, Deabay called the police.

Soon afterward, Haines returned to the bar with a second revolver. He allegedly flashed the gun and demanded his first gun be returned to him. After receiving the gun, Haines again left.

A manhunt involving 19 law enforcement officers ensued. During the two-hour search, police heard a gunshot and one officer reported hearing an object go whistling past him.

Haines was arrested early Friday morning. He reportedly had several knives, including a large hunting knife and switchblade, in his possession.

At some point after police apprehended Haines, he threatened to kill Chief Martin and Freeman Deabay.

The investigation into the incident is continuing and police expect to make more charges against Haines before it concludes.