By SYDNEY KENT
The man charged with the of murder his 72-year-old grandmother appeared in court for an initial hearing on Monday morning.
Anthony Castleman, 37, Markle, was charged with the crime after he was identified as the lead suspect in the murder of Bernice “Dianna” Eubank. Eubank was located on her property last November, partially hidden, with stab wounds and an injury to the head.
Castleman prolonged deposition after he left the state and refused to waive extradition following his arrest in Georgia late last year. Despite this, he was ordered to return to the state to face the alleged charges.
During the hearing, Castleman requested to exercise his right to a fast and speedy trial. Indiana law dictates that a defendant who is held in jail on a probable cause affidavit has the right to be discharged if the trial does not begin within 70 days of that request.
Huntington County Prosecutor Jeremy Nix said although it isn’t common, the request happens occasionally. The five-day jury trial is anticipated to begin April 22.
A motion to add the habitual offender charge was also approved, which could enhance Castleman’s sentence by up to 20 years.
Castleman has a lengthy criminal history throughout several counties in the state, including Wells County.
sydney@news-banner.com
