A defendant facing two first degree rape charges has pleaded not guilty and has waived a speedy trial.
Two felony charges of first degree rape with a victim under 14 were filed in Lincoln County District Court Jan. 24, 2023 against Dakota Shane Murch, 44.
A $75,000 bench warrant for his arrest was issued the same day the charges were filed.
Court records show the bench warrant was returned and filed Feb. 1, 2023, Murch made his initial appearance on Feb. 2 last year before Special Judge Emily Mueller.
Appearing for his arraignment last week before District Judge John Canavan, Murch pleaded not guilty to the charges. The judge received the plea and set the cause for disposition at 9 a.m. on July 16 this year.
Court records show that on Aug. 17, 2023 an order of recusal was filed.
They further show that on Sep. 21 last year Judge Mueller struck that date and a new judge was later assigned.