Trial Delayed For Inmate Charged in Anamosa Prison Murders

The trial of one of the inmates accused of killing two Anamosa state prison workers is being delayed. Michael Dutcher was scheduled to stand trial before a Jones County judge August 3rd, but that was delayed after he waived his right to a speedy trial. Dutcher and Thomas Woodard have pled not guilty to the March 23rd 1st-degree murders of correctional Officer Robert McFarland and nurse Lorena Schulte. They’re also charged with kidnapping and attempted murder. Court documents show Dutcher plans to claim he was acting in self-defense. Woodard’s trial is set for September 21st in Linn County.