The trial of the man accused of murdering a man living near near Nevada City, in June, may happen before the end of the year. Following a preliminary hearing, Nevada County Judge Robert Tice-Raskin ruled that there is enough evidence to try 32-year-old Joseph Ward, who was arrested in Carson City and fought extradition. Assistant D-A Chris Walsh says Ward had known the victim, 61-year-old Kenneth Pestana, for about 20 years and had been staying at Pestana’s home. But that relationship had apparently soured…

click to listen to Chris Walsh

Walsh says the relationship between Ward and Pestana had been close at times…

click to listen to Chris Walsh

Pestana also had a criminal history, being convicted of murder in 1973 and serving his sentence at Soledad prison. Walsh says since Ward has not waived his right to a speedy trial, a trial would need to be scheduled within 60 days of the arraigment, which is scheduled for Friday.