A federal judge has granted a third continuance in the case against D’Angelo Hunt, pushing back the trial in the Spirit Lake killings case to April 2027. Chief Judge Peter Welte signed the order on Tuesday, officially resetting Hunt’s trial to begin on April 13, 2027, according to court documents. The federal trial had previously been scheduled to commence on November 17 of this year.
The significant delay was requested by Hunt’s attorney, who sought additional time to investigate the details of the case, thoroughly review discovery materials provided by the prosecution, and prepare an adequate defense for trial, the order states. A key factor in the request was the mention of ongoing plea negotiations taking place between the defense and federal prosecutors.
According to the judicial order, D’Angelo Hunt consented to this continuance. In doing so, Hunt formally waived his rights to a speedy trial, which are constitutional protections ensuring a timely legal process. Prosecutors involved in the federal case did not object to the defense’s request for the delay, paving the way for the judge’s decision.
Chief Judge Welte, in considering the request, determined that the reasons for granting the continuance outweighed the public’s and Hunt’s inherent interest in a prompt resolution of the charges. The judge found that "the ends of justice served by granting the continuance" were greater than the interest in a speedy trial, indicating a belief that more time would lead to a fairer or more just outcome. This federal case is anticipated to be a lengthy proceeding, expected to take approximately four weeks to try once it eventually begins.
D’Angelo Hunt faces a total of 10 federal charges stemming from the Spirit Lake killings case. These charges include second-degree murder in connection with the death of his brother, Isaac Hunt. He also faces a charge of voluntary manslaughter in the death of Jemini Posey. Court documents indicate that Posey had been dating Hunt before she was reported missing in January 2024. Additional federal charges listed against Hunt in the case include felony assault, tampering with evidence, and using fire to commit a felony. The continuance marks a substantial postponement in a complex federal case involving multiple serious allegations. The federal court proceedings will now extend for an additional two and a half years before a trial is set to commence in Fargo.
