This story was last updated on: 10:32 p.m., Tuesday, Feb. 07, 2017.

The people accused of helping Markeith Loyd may soon be out of jail after the state dropped its case against one and moved to significantly reduce the high bonds for two others.

At a hearing at the Orange County Courthouse on Tuesday morning, the State Attorney said it has dropped the charges against Loyd's niece, Lakensha Smith-Loyd, who was charged with accessory after deputies said she helped her uncle. The state said there was insufficient evidence to prove the case beyond a reasonable doubt.

She had posted bond Wednesday, Jan. 25, after it was reduced from $750,000 to $10,000.

Also, Jameis Slaughter's $500,000 bond was reduced to $25,000. The former girlfriend of Loyd faces two charges of acting as an accessory after the fact (bond at $20,000) and for providing a false name to law enforcement ($5,000), a misdemeanor. 

Slaughter was released from jail on bond Tuesday night.

The state also recommended to reduce the bond for Zarghee Mayan, a manager at the Orange Blossom Trail fast-food restaurant where Loyd worked. Mayan's bond is set at a $400,000 collateral bond but would be reduced to a $20,000 normal bond if a judge approves the request. Last week, he asked to have his bond reduced, but that request was denied.

All three had been arrested on charges of helping Loyd evade authorities as they sought him in connection with the slayings of two people. Loyd was arrested Tuesday, Jan. 17, after a nine-day manhunt during which he was placed on the U.S. Marshals' 15 most wanted list. Loyd is charged in the slaying of Orlando Police Lt. Debra Clayton, who was shot at an Orlando Wal-Mart as she confronted him about the Dec. 13, 2016 shooting death of Loyd's pregnant ex-girlfriend, Sade Dixon, for whose killing he's also charged.

Slaughter's defense team said she is expected to be able to bond out jail sometime today. 


Jameis Slaughter appears at a bond hearing at the Orange County Courthouse on Tuesday, Feb. 7, 2017. She was charged with accessory after the fact, accused of helping to collect money for her ex-boyfriend, Markeith Loyd, while he evaded police. (News 13)