Cesar Laurean arraignment delayed

Cesar Laurean’s next court date has been pushed back.

The State and the defense agreed to reschedule the Marine’s arraignment from May 18 to June 8 in Onslow County Superior Court.  Laurean is charged with first degree murder for the death of fellow Marine LCpl. Maria Lauterbach, who was pregnant at the time. Prosecutors say Laurean burned her body and burried it in a shallow grave in the backyard of his Onslow County home.

Investigators say Laurean fled to Mexico and was caught by authorities there. He spent nearly a year in a Mexican jail before being extradited back the United States in April. Laurean’s first court appearance was April 20. He was denied bond.

Laurean is expected to plead not guilty at his arraignment.