TYLER, Texas — Dabrett Black was in the Freestone County Courthouse on Thursday for a pre-trial hearing.
Black is facing capital murder charges for the death of Trooper Damon Allen on Thanksgiving 2017.
The hearing started more than 30 minutes late, but lasted less than 10 minutes.
During the hearing in the 77th District Court, Judge Patrick Simmons set a few deadlines for the case before the next pre-trial hearing.
The defense has until 5 p.m. on February 15, 2019 to file a "Change of Venue" motion. The prosecutors response is needed by 5 p.m. March 15, 2019 with the Judge ruling on the decision March 26 at 1:30 p.m. during the next scheduled pre-trial hearing.
Black's lawyers could request a change if they feel their client would be unable to receive a fair trial in Freestone County.
Another deadline would be for Black's defense team to notify the court if they plan to raise and insanity defense.
They have until 1 p.m. on March 26, 2019 to do so. That deadline is right before the next pre-trial hearing.
At the hearing, Casey Allen, the late Trooper's wife was in attendance wearing a shirt in honor of him.
Many DPS Troopers were also in attendance.
The next pre-trial hearing is March 26, 2019 at 1:30 p.m.