VINCENNES – The legal proceedings are underway for Dylan Smith, the Vincennes man charged with murder in the August 5 death of Taylor Hendershot. Smith’s attorney, Brock Dawson, has filed a request for a change of venue, arguing that his client cannot receive a fair trial in Knox County.

The request cites several factors, including widespread media coverage, community memorials for the victim, and the victim’s family’s connections to a sitting judge. Dawson contends that these circumstances could prevent the selection of an impartial jury.

Prosecutor Dirk Carnahan has opposed the request, calling it “untimely” and stating that no evidence has been presented to prove that potential jurors are biased. He argued that public vigils and media attention are common following violent crimes and

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