A judge has taken under advisement a defense request to move the murder trial of 46-year-old Megan Valentine out of Edwards County.
Judge William Thurston heard arguments Thursday on the motion, with defense attorney Jessica Koester contending extensive pretrial publicity would prevent Valentine from receiving a fair trial. The defense cited media coverage of the November 2024 death of Edwards County Circuit Judge Michael Valentine, as well as publicity surrounding allegations involving Megan Valentine and a former White County jailer.
Koester also referenced comments posted on social media in response to news coverage of the case.
Judge Thurston did not immediately rule on the request and said he will issue a decision at a later date.
Valentine of Albion is charged in the November 5, 2024, death of her husband. Her next pretrial hearing is scheduled for September 23rd.