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Murder Conviction Upheld Despite Trial Delay

New Mexico's highest court has upheld the convictions of a Las Cruces man whose murder trial was postponed for nearly four years.

The state Supreme Court ruled Thursday that Moises Menchaca's constitutional right to a speedy trial was not violated.

He was arrested in 2007 for the killing of William Lucero but didn't go to trial until 47 months later. The court said Menchaca failed to show that he was prejudiced by the delay, which he partially contributed to or caused.

Menchaca was sentenced to life in prison for murder and an additional 21 years for other crimes, including aggravated assault and shooting at an occupied building. The court upheld all of his convictions. Menchaca must serve 51 years in prison before he's eligible for parole.

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