Attorneys for Charles Van Nest, of Patagonia, requested a continuance today at a court hearing before Santa Cruz County Superior Court Judge Denneen Peterson. The hearing had been scheduled to hear a change of plea.
Previously, Van Nest had pleaded ‘not guilty’ to the charges of premeditated attempted murder, aggravated assault and domestic violence after he allegedly attacked a Patagonia woman on October 4, 2019.
Defense attorney Michael Storie requested the continuance, stating that the defense needed more time to examine disclosure material.
Judge Peterson offered three dates in February, but after conferring with the defense and County Prosecutor Greg Redente, set the next hearing for April 10.