Ciara DeRyke's Pre-Trial Continued; Possible Plea Bargain in the Works

The pre-trial of Ciara DeRyke of Watson was continued today to the end of the month, and prosecutors confirmed that talks are going on regarding a possible negotiated plea in her case.

Ciara DeRyke is the mother of seven-year-old Willow Long, who was killed last September. Prosecutors say Willow was killed by her uncle and Ciara's brother, Justin DeRyke.  Ciara DeRyke is charged with obstructing a peace officer.  It's alleged she told investigators she saw Willow alive in their home the morning of Sunday, September 8 while prosecutors believe she was killed by Justin DeRyke the night before.

The pre-trial for Ciara DeRyke was re-scheduled for 11am on Tuesday, January 28.  State's Attorney Bryan Kibler confirmed that he and Ciara's court-appointed attorney Barry Schaefer are talking about a possible plea agreement.  Ciara's trial is set to begin February 10.

Ciara DeRyke's charge is a misdemeanor offense, meaning up to a year in jail if found guilty.  She remains in Effingham County Jail under $15,000 bond.