The defense attorneys for Varez Ward recently learned they will have a few more months to get ready for the former Auburn basketball player's point-shaving trial.
According to Drew Taylor of the Opelika-Auburn News, U.S. District Judge Keith Watkins has granted a motion to have Ward's case continued from the originally set date of July 22 to Nov. 4.
Watkins's reasons for continuing the trial included the defense's request for more time to conclude some pretrial matters. The defense plans to submit a request for a pretrial diversion.
"Based on the foregoing and the circumstances of this case, the court finds that the ends of justice served by continuing this trial outweigh the best interest of the public and the defendant's right to a speedy trial," Watkins wrote in an order issued Friday, June 28. "Failure to grant the continuance would result in a miscarriage of justice, because the defendant cannot submit his request for a pretrial diversion in time for the government to process it before his trial date."
Ward pleaded not guilty to federal charges of conspiracy to defraud and sports bribery June 6.
If convicted, Ward could face up to a five-year prison sentence.
The former Auburn point guard allegedly tried to fix the point spread during a game against the University of Arkansas Jan. 25, 2012.
Ward left the game early due to an apparent leg injury, and Auburn lost 56-53. He was suspended indefinitely on Feb. 25, 2012, and later left the University.
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