Published Feb. 13, 2004

The two-year anniversary of grisly bodily remains being found at Tri-State Crematory is almost here.

Walker Countians have been debating the latest in the Tri-State Crematory case — whether former operator Brent Marsh’s indigency status is bogus or not. But the latest in a seemingly endless series of hearings, delays and appeals is leaving one huge question unanswered.

Is this case ever going to trial?

At this point, the courts are still trying to make sense out of Mr. Marsh’s finances, and many Tri-State victims are seething at the possibility of money coming out of their pockets for his defense.

Also, where will a jury come from? Will Marsh get indigency money for expert witnesses, and if so, how much?

As a trial looms somewhere in the distance, the particulars in this prolonged case have their work cut out for them.

Judge James Bodiford wants to be sure what may be “the most voluminous prosecution” in state history is only tried in the courts once. With nearly 800 counts to consider, it won’t be easy.

Marsh attorney Ken Poston has the task of convincing a jury how hundreds of uncremated bodies found on his client’s property doesn’t signal criminal action and consequences.

District Attorney Buzz Franklin has already called Marsh’s recent legal separation from his wife Venessa a “sham,” a convenient split which paved the way for the awarding of Marsh’s indigency status. He serves an impatient public eager to get this sordid chapter behind them and see justice done.

Scores of stories about the Tri-State Crematory have been published in newspapers and posted on Web sites and aired on television newscasts in the last two years. Many more will be penned during and long after a trial.

While we’re confident those involved are working their hardest to ensure a fair trial for Marsh, we’re also hopeful for a resolution so Walker County can begin healing.

The dark clouds have been lingering here long enough