UPDATE: Jamie Shimizu Cook, the daughter-in-law of Guam Governor Lou Leon Guerrero, has been released from house arrest and has pleaded not guilty to serious assault charges. This development comes after a month of compliance with probation requirements, marking a significant moment in a case that has captured public attention.
Cook, aged 46, appeared before Superior Court Magistrate Judge Sean Brown on Thursday, where she formally addressed the charges against her. She is facing multiple serious accusations, including aggravated assault as a second-degree felony, alongside several third-degree felonies such as aggravated assault with family violence, criminal mischief, and terroristic conduct.
During the arraignment, Cook waived the reading of the indictment and entered a plea of not guilty. The court has approved a 12-member jury for her trial and granted all necessary statutory and constitutional discovery.
Cook’s defense attorney, Kristine Borja, successfully argued for the lifting of Cook’s house arrest, emphasizing her role as the primary caretaker for her minor children. “Ms. Cook has been compliant for about a month, with no violations,” Borja stated, urging the court to consider her responsibilities at home. The lifting of the no-contact order was also mentioned, with both parties reportedly not opposing its removal.
Court documents reveal that Cook was arrested on January 1, 2023, after an alleged assault on her husband, Joaquin “Kin” Cook, president of the Bank of Guam. The incident occurred in Chalan Pago, where authorities reported that Cook rammed her vehicle into her husband’s parked car and another vehicle belonging to a woman employed by the Guam Legislature. Her husband sustained minor injuries, including a laceration and swelling.
Cook was released the following day on a $10,000 personal recognizance bond, allowing her to leave without posting bail on the condition that she would return to court. Family and supporters attended her hearing, while her husband was notably absent.
The case has now been assigned to Superior Court Judge Maria T. Cenzon, who will notify the involved parties of the next hearing date through a written order. The public will be watching closely as this case progresses, especially given its high-profile nature and the implications it holds for both the Cook family and the local community.
As developments continue, residents and interested parties are encouraged to stay informed about this ongoing legal matter.
