Trial dates set in Annika Swanson’s murder case

    It’s been more than two years since the November 2019 death of Annika Swanson of Imperial.
    But, in five and a half months, the man arrested for her alleged murder will face his trial.
    At a status hearing last Thursday held by telephone, District Judge Patrick Heng set dates for the Chase County District Court trial of Kevin German, 26, who continues to be held without bond in North Platte.
    German’s jury trial will be held July 18-29 in Imperial.
    German was arrested Nov. 23, 2019.
    Judge Heng also set a pretrial hearing for June 23. Attorneys have until May 2 to submit supplemental jury questionnaires.
    The Nebraska Attorney General’s Office is prosecuting the case, with attorney Michael B. Guinan and Douglas Warner serving as Special Deputy Chase County Attorneys.
    German is being represented by Clarence E. Mock of Omaha.
    German is charged with first degree murder and two counts of felony kidnapping in Swanson’s death.
    There has been no activity in the court records since October 2020 on Keonna Carter, who is also charged with first degree murder and one  felony count of kidnapping in the case.
    Suzanne Gage, spokesperson in the Attorney General’s Office, said the progression of Carter’s case will be determined closer to summer.
    Carter continues to be jailed in North Platte, as well.