The Summerland Advocate-Messenger - Reliable, Trustworthy Reporting, Capturing The Heartbeat Of Our Community

Two defendants waived their rights to preliminary hearings when they appeared in front of the Honorable Donna Taylor in the Antelope County courtroom in Neligh on Nov. 1.

Max S. Kerkman, 34, of Oakdale appeared with his lawyer, Brad Montag of Norfolk, on a pair of Class 4 felony drug charges, possession of methamphetamine and oxycodone.

Taylor bound the case over to the Antelope County district court, where Kerkman is set for arraignment Nov. 29. Bond is continued at $20,000, 10% cash.

Kerkman was arrested following a June 6 federal probation search at his Oakdale residence.

Christopher Barta, 29, Irene, South Dakota, appeared alongside his court appointed attorney, Martin Klein of Neligh, on two Class 2A felony counts, conspiracy to commit theft by unlawful taking and conspiracy to commit criminal mischief.

Taylor bound Barta over to district court, where he is set for arraignment Dec. 20. Bond is continued at $25,000, 10%.

Barta was arrested July 28, in South Dakota on an Antelope County warrant, accused of conspiring with others to steal wiring from irrigation systems last spring and summer.