By Sam Stanton
sstanton@sacbee.com
Former real estate magnate Michael P. Lyon made a brief appearance in Sacramento Superior Court today at his arraignment on four felony charges, but did not enter a plea and will return to court Dec. 8.
Lyon, 54, who is accused of secretly filming sexual encounters with three prostitutes, did not speak during the brief session inside Judge Gary Ransom's second floor courtroom.
He entered the courtroom at 10:20 a.m. without speaking to the reporters and photographers gathered for his arraignment, and sat quietly in the third row with two women who accompanied him.
After about 15 minutes, Judge Ransom called the case, read the criminal charges Lyon faces and set the new hearing date.
Lyon's attorney, William Portanova, said afterward that there was nothing unusual about the fact that a plea wasn't entered today, and that it was not a sign of any plea agreement negotiation.
Portanova has previously said that Lyon will plead not guilty.
Call The Bee's Sam Stanton, (916) 321-1091.
Photo caption: Former real estate magnate Michael P. Lyon arrives at Sacramento Superior Court today. Photo by Hector Amezcua
Previous coverage:
High-tech eyeglasses among items seized from Lyon's property - Nov. 17, 2010
Real estate mogul Lyon investigated by FBI for alleged use of prostitute - Nov. 12, 2010
Deputies arrest secret taping suspect Lyon, search his homes - Nov. 11, 2010
Lyon sued by two who say they were secretly videotaped - Oct. 21, 2010
18 Lyon agents jump to rival Coldwell Banker in Sacramento area - Sept. 30, 2010
Michael Lyon, focus of criminal probe, cuts ties with Lyon Real Estate - Sept. 22, 2010
Bob Shallit: Lyon exec quits, cites allegations against firm's leader - Sept. 18, 2010
New details emerge in Lyon probe - Sept. 10, 2010
Michael Lyon intends to clear his name, associate says - Sept. 3, 2010
Michael Lyon has impressed and inspired in realty career - Sept. 3, 2010
Amid CEO'S scandal, key aide takes control at Lyon Real Estate - Sept. 1, 2010
Real estate magnate Michael Lyon under investigation - Aug. 31, 2010









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