Trial set in 2012 Merced homicide case

A long-delayed homicide case is once again scheduled to go before a Merced Superior Court jury.

Michael L. Wilkins, 22, has pleaded not guilty to murder and other charges in the slaying of 47-year-old Raymond Garza, who was gunned down Aug. 8, 2012, at an apartment complex on Park Avenue in Merced.

A jury trial has been scheduled to begin April 14 before Judge Ronald W. Hansen. Wilkins appeared in court briefly Tuesday to confirm the trial date. Jury questionnaires were sent out Tuesday, according to the Merced County District Attorney’s Office.

The defense has argued that Wilkins, at the time of the incident, was not able to fully understand the consequences of his actions because of a mental disease or defect. However, Merced prosecutors disagree, noting Wilkins has been deemed fit to stand trial, officials have said.

The case has been delayed numerous times for many reasons, including mental-competency reviews.

Wilkins remains in custody without bail at the Merced County jail.

This story was originally published April 8, 2015 at 9:33 AM with the headline "Trial set in 2012 Merced homicide case."