Gary Lee Bullock pretrial continued until June 11 at defense request

 It was a packed Courtroom 1 this afternoon with a few cases continued from Courtroom 3's morning calendar. Gary Lee Bullock's case was scheduled for a pre-trial conference.

Courtroom 1 is Judge John Feeney's court. Deputy District Attorney Elan Firpo who is prosecuting the case was present for the People. Kaleb Cockrum from Conflict Counsel is representing Bullock.

Bullock is charged with the murder of Fr. Eric Freed, beloved priest and former pastor of St. Bernard's parish in Eureka.

Bullock looked healthier, has gained some weight, seemed alert and talked with his attorney before his case was called. He even smiled briefly while chatting with Mr. Cockrum. Then went back to his serious demeanor.

Ms. Firpo and Mr. Cockrum sat together where the public sits while other cases were being called.

When Bullock's case was called, Mr. Cockrum said that the defense was in the "middle of doing investigation. It looks unlikely we will be ready for trial in August." Mr. Cockrum said that he could not say when he will be ready and that he would  file a written motion asking for continuance of the trial and perhaps future dates.

Another pre-trial conference is scheduled for June 11.