Guru's attorneys to argue against $5 million bail

By FELICIA FONSECA Associated Press Writer

CAMP VERDE, Ariz. (AP) - Attorneys for a motivational speaker charged with manslaughter are due in court Tuesday afternoon to argue against his $5 million bail, which they say is excessive and oppressive.

James Arthur Ray has pleaded not guilty to three counts of manslaughter that stem from the deaths of three people following a sweat lodge ceremony he led last year. He's been jailed nearly three weeks.

Ray's attorneys have said he has no criminal history, isn't a threat to public safety or a flight risk and cannot afford the bail.

They've asked a judge to release Ray on his own recognizance coupled with the surrender of his passport or have bail set at a minimum.