Yoder Trial Delayed Until December

The murder trial of local resident Charles Yoder has been delayed until December.

Judge Sherri Tungate granted the delay from October 7 to December 2 after confirming with Yoder that he agreed with the continuance.  The delay will be charged to the defense.

Yoder is charged with the fatal stabbing of Ted Debany during an altercation outside the house where they lived in Effingham.

Public Defender Scott Schmidt and State's Attorney Bryan Kibler agreed that they will need until the December trial date to complete preparation of their respective cases.  Kibler added that there will be a number of pre-trial motions to be considered.  Judge Tungate scheduled a pre-trial hearing to consider the motions for 11am on November 14.  Judge Kimberly Koester will be the trial judge and will hear the pre-trial motions.

Wednesday's hearing was to consider a defense request for appointment of a private investigator to assist in the development of Yoder's case.  Judge Tungate had delayed a decision on the request earlier this month until she could find out whether a fund exists to pay the investigator.  The judge allowed up to $1,000 for the investigator.

Yoder is being held without bond in Effingham County Jail.