New judge assigned to murder case in Hermann

HERMANN, Mo. (KMIZ)

A new judge has been assigned for the case of the man charged with murdering a Hermann police sergeant.

The hearing for Kenneth Simpson, 35, of Steelville, set for Monday was canceled on Friday after the defense asked for a change in judge.

Matthew Houston has been assigned to preside over the case. The next court date has not yet been set.

Simpson is charged with first-degree murder, two counts of armed-criminal action, first-degree assault and unlawful possession of a firearm.

Simpson is accused of killing Mason Griffith and injuring Adam Sullentrup by shooting them March 12 at a Casey’s in Hermann. Griffith’s funeral was held Sunday.

Police caught Simpson following a more than 12-hour standoff.