Jonathan P. Cheek, a retired airline industry worker, was allowed to remain free today on

$100,000 bail after an Erie County grand jury indicted him on attempted murder, reckless

endangerment and criminal mischief charges for allegedly trying to kill his ex-wife two months

ago.

Cheek, 68, of Ide Road in Wilson, pleaded not guilty before Erie County Judge Thomas P.

Franczyk. Though prosecutor Peter J. Marche sought an increase in bail to $500,000, the judge

allowed Cheek to remain free on his previously-posted bail.

Cheek, who could not be reached for comment following a brief court session, was indicted

for allegedly attacking his ex-wife in her Amherst home and for allegedly trying to force her

car off the road Jan. 13.

Neither District Attorney Frank A. Sedita III nor prosecutor Marche would identify Cheek's

ex-wife or her residence or where in Amherst the driving incident allegedly occurred.