Trial of Aberdeen Murder Suspect Delayed 4 Months

ABERDEEN, S.D. (AP) — A new trial date has been set for Aberdeen murder suspect John Hemminger.

The 33-year-old Hemminger is accused in the death of 26-year-old Jessica Goebel, who died five days after being stabbed in January. He's pleaded not guilty to alternate counts of murder, including premeditated murder.

The American News reports that a monthlong trial initially was scheduled for January, but Judge Scott Myren has agreed to delay it four months. It's now scheduled May 9-27.

Both counts against Hemminger carry a minimum punishment of life in prison. Prosecutors said last week that they would not seek the death penalty should Hemminger be convicted.

Copyright 2015 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.