Murder suspect’s attorney removed from case

A new wrinkle in the case against Tami Huntsman and Gonzalo Curiel, the couple accused of killing two children and abusing a third in Huntsman’s care.

On Wednesday, Judge Pamela Butler allowed Curiel’s attorney to be removed from the case, citing Jeremy Dzubay has a conflict of interest. He was recently named interim assistant public defender for the county. A new attorney, Art Dudley of Santa Cruz, may be appointed to represent Curiel at a hearing next week.

Huntman’s attorney, Scott Erdbacher, told the court he needs co-counsel to help represent his client and that he won’t be ready for months.

“I will not be ready this year, there’s just too many things going on,” Erdbacher said in court. “I need some assurance that it won’t be until next year that we have a trial date. If I have that, I believe I can get Keenan counsel on board and I really need help.”

Prosecutor Steve Somers said he was concerned some of his witnesses may forget details that are important to the case.

“I think the court just has to set a date and we all have to comply with it,” Somers said.

The next hearing is scheduled for Friday, February 10.