By SYDNEY KENT
Trial dates have been delayed for a Markle man accused of murdering his grandmother last fall.
Anthony Castleman, 37, originally requested to exercise his right to a fast and speedy trial during his initial hearing in Huntington County last month.
According to Huntington County Prosecutor, Jeremy Nix, Castleman changed his mind following a meeting with his attorney. The five-day trial, originally scheduled to begin on April 22, is now expected to begin on August 26.
Additionally, Special Judge Honorable Samuel K. Conrad will now preside over the case.
Nix clarified that both the Huntington County Circuit and Superior Court judges have recused themselves from the case due to conflicts of interest.
A warrant for Castleman’s arrest was filed after police found the body of Bernice “Dianna” Eubank, 72, with numerous stab wounds located on her property, where Castleman is alleged to have also lived.
A reward was offered for information that led to Castleman’s arrest. However, he was ultimately apprehended in the small town of Rochelle, Georgia by the town’s police chief on Christmas Day. Castleman returned back to the state after a lengthy extradition process in February. An additional habitual offender enhancement was added during his initial hearing.
Castleman is scheduled for a final pretrial conference in this matter at 1 p.m. on July 19 in the Huntington Circuit Court.
sydney@news-banner.com
