A final pre-trial hearing in the murder case against Arnold Rivera, 44, charged in the November 2025 death of a 14-year-old Vandalia juvenile, was continued Tuesday to April 15 at 10:00 a.m. for a possible plea.
Rivera appeared in custody in Fayette County Court with public defender Lucas Mette and State’s Attorney Brenda Mathis present. The hearing followed a March 31 appearance, the second court date in 10 days, at which Rivera was informed about a 402 conference and agreed to allow one to proceed.
A 402 conference was held on Tuesday, during which the judge met privately with counsel from both sides. The process typically involves a review of the defendant’s background, the charges, potential evidence, and likely witnesses. After the conference, the judge informs both parties of the sentence that would be imposed if the defendant is found guilty at trial. The jury trial date of April 20 at 8:30 a.m. remains in place.
Rivera faces two counts of First Degree Murder. According to the charges, he is alleged to have strangled the 14-year-old with jumper cables and concealed the body. Both counts are Class M felonies carrying a sentence of 20 to 60 years in prison. He also faces two counts of Criminal Sexual Assault, both Class 1 felonies; one count of Concealing a Homicidal Death, a Class 3 felony and one count of Concealing Death, a Class 4 felony.