A new trial date of May 1 was set for the homicide charges and abduction charge. The case could take up to two weeks to complete, Nelson Circuit Judge J. Michael Gamble said Monday.

A special grand jury convened last week, at Martin's request, to hear evidence and consider indictments prepared in the Murphy case, he said. There is probable cause for the new charges, he added, but did not elaborate on the evidence at the news conference or in court.

"The return of indictments only means that the grand jury found that probable cause exists for the charges I mentioned and that Randy Taylor should go on trial for those charges," Martin said. "The defendant is presumed to be innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt."

Trina Murphy, Alexis' great-aunt, said in brief remarks after the hearing, "the [Murphy] family just wants to give thanks for everyone who supported us and continues to support us.

"We ask for continued prayer in support right now because we need that more than anything."

When asked, she said: "We really can't speak to any specifics of the case ... we just really want to let everyone know we appreciate all the effort that has gone on the past five months."