In a recent development in the murder case of Megan Valentine, her attorney has officially waived her client’s right to a speedy trial. During a brief hearing conducted in a Zoom format on Tuesday, attorney Jessica Koester submitted the notice. Megan Valentine is facing charges related to the shooting death of her husband, Edwards County Circuit Judge Michael Valentine, on November 5, 2024.
The hearing featured various participants: Prosecutor David J. Robinson attended in person at the Edwards County courthouse, while Megan Valentine appeared from her jail cell in Carmi. Judge William Thurston presided from the bench in Pulaski County, with Valentine’s defense attorney joining from her office in Edwardsville.
Additionally, Valentine’s attorney has filed a motion for the return of a key fob linked to Megan’s van, which was searched during the investigation into Judge Valentine’s murder. Prosecutor Robinson has been given 10 days to confirm whether the key fob is being retained as evidence by the Illinois State Police. If it is not needed as evidence, it will be returned to family members.
During the hearing, Special Prosecutor Robinson informed the court that investigators are nearing the conclusion of their inquiry into the murder and are in the process of sharing discovery with Megan’s attorney. Due to the incomplete final report, Judge Thurston decided that the case would not be placed on the trial docket at this time. A status hearing has been scheduled for Thursday, January 30th
Before the criminal case hearing, motions regarding the custody of Judge Valentine’s two children were discussed, although media access was restricted. Judge Valentine’s parents, Michael Sr. and Marilyn Valentine, have filed a motion concerning their grandchildren’s care and custody, which will also be addressed on January 30th. Presently, the Illinois Department of Children and Family Services is supervising the children’s care, and they are living with relatives.
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