The trial of a Le Mars man charged with first-degree murder has been continued.
22-year-old Omar Cruz was originally scheduled to go on trial today, October 28th, in Plymouth County District Court. Cruz’s defense attorney requested a continuance in order to adequately prepare for trial, quote, “in light of recent filings by the State and the Court’s recent rulings on pretrial motions.” Cruz voluntarily waived his right to a speedy trial as part of the motion, as the deadline for his trial to occur within a year of his arraignment was October 31st.
The judge agreed to the request and has set a status hearing date for November 7th at 10 a.m. to determine a new trial date.
Cruz was charged with first-degree murder in the shooting death of Miguel Martinez, which occurred at a residence on 3rd Avenue in Le Mars on September 30th, 2024. Cruz was arrested in Sioux City a week later, and has been in custody at the Plymouth County Jail since then.
