•June 22, 2016•

Michael S. Yost, 43, waived his right to a jury trial in Moultrie County Circuit Court  June 21.

Public Defender Brad Rau presented the waiver to Chief Judge Dan L. Flannell with State’s Attorney Jeremy Richey explaining the trial could take up to four days without juror selection.

Before setting the 9 a.m. September 12 court date, Judge Flannell read the four counts of murder with which Yost has been charged. The most serious of the first degree murder charges could carry a 20 years to natural life sentence and up to a $25,000 fine.

Flannell explained that the trial by the court would mean the decision on Yost’s innocence or guilt would rest exclusively with the judge.

Once agreed on the new court date Judge Flannell then addressed Yost’s correspondence concerning jail accommodations.     Login or Subscribe to read the rest of this story.