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Malta Today
By the People, for the People
Malta Man Sentenced to Probation for Disorderly Conduct and Privacy Violations
Roman Morris received 12 months probation and fines for misdemeanor charges in 17th Judicial District Court
Published on Feb. 25, 2026
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On February 19, 2026, Roman Morris of Malta, Montana was sentenced to 12 months probation by District Judge Yvonne Laird for charges of Disorderly Conduct and Privacy In Communications, both misdemeanors. Morris entered No Contest pleas to the charges that morning and was credited for 5 days already served in jail. He was also ordered to pay $1,570 in court costs and surcharges, remain law-abiding, abstain from alcohol, and have no contact with the victim.
Why it matters
This case highlights the ongoing efforts by Montana's judicial system to address low-level criminal offenses through probation and fines rather than lengthy jail sentences, with the goal of rehabilitation and reducing recidivism rates. The charges against Morris involved violations of public order and individual privacy, which are common concerns in many communities.
The details
Morris was charged with Disorderly Conduct and Privacy In Communications, both misdemeanors, following an incident in Malta. He entered No Contest pleas to the charges on the morning of February 19, 2026 in the 17th Judicial District Court. District Judge Yvonne Laird then sentenced Morris to 12 months of probation, credited him for 5 days already served in jail, and ordered him to pay $1,570 in court costs and surcharges. The judge also mandated that Morris remain law-abiding, abstain from alcohol, and have no contact with the victim.
- On February 19, 2026, Roman Morris entered No Contest pleas to the charges.
- On February 19, 2026, District Judge Yvonne Laird sentenced Morris to 12 months probation.
The players
Roman Morris
A resident of Malta, Montana who was sentenced to 12 months probation for Disorderly Conduct and Privacy In Communications misdemeanor charges.
District Judge Yvonne Laird
The judge presiding over the case in the 17th Judicial District Court who sentenced Roman Morris.
Dan O'Brien
The County Attorney who represented the State of Montana in the case against Roman Morris.
Lee Pekovitch
The Deputy County Attorney who assisted Dan O'Brien in representing the State of Montana.
Frank Piocos
The Public Defender who represented Roman Morris.
What they’re saying
“On February 19, 2026, District Judge Yvonne Laird sentenced Roman Morris of Malta to 12 months probation for Disorderly Conduct, a misdemeanor and Privacy In Communications, a misdemeanor. Morris entered Nolo Contendere (No Contest) pleas to the charges that morning.”
— Dan O'Brien, County Attorney (Phillips County News)
What’s next
The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Roman Morris to be released from probation early for good behavior.
The takeaway
This case highlights Montana's approach of using probation and fines rather than jail time for certain low-level offenses, with the goal of rehabilitation and reducing repeat offenses. It also demonstrates the state's efforts to balance public order and individual privacy concerns through the judicial system.
