Jeffrey D. McGaha is scheduled to go on trial for the murder of Michael Cowan in December of this year.

Appearing before Special Judge Robert McGinnis in Adair Circuit Court a week ago Tuesday, Judge McGinnis set the trial date for McGaha for December 5.

McGaha is charged with murdering Michael Cowan on June 7 of this year. According to the indictment, McGaha struck Cowan with his vehicle while Cowan was riding an ATV, then shot Cowan in the head. The two men were neighbors in Guffey Estates on Highway 80 East, and had an on-going dispute.

McGaha’s lawyer, Currie Millikin, asked Judge McGinnis to lower McGaha’s bond, which is presently at $500,000 cash or secured property. Judge McGinnis took no action last Tuesday, but stated he would take the request under consideration.

In other action in Circuit Court, Judge McGinnis set a January 4, 2012 trial date for Donnie and Tina Richmond. The former Kentucky State Trooper and his wife are charged with arson for allegedly burning their home in southern Adair County in 2009.

An arraignment was also held for Matthew Swanson, who is charged with attempted murder for allegedly trying to kill another man with a knife.

A not guilty plea was entered on Swanson’s behalf by his attorney. He remained lodged in Adair County Regional Jail under $500,000 bond.