The two defendants awaiting new trials in the Yogurt Shop murder case will soon get two new crucial days in court, which their lawyers said will give them the chance to show why they should be freed, at least temporarily.
In a closed pre-trial hearing in his chambers Tuesday, Judge Mike Lynch agreed to a writ of habeas corpus hearing that essentially will amount to a mini-trial for defendants Michael Scott and Robert Springsteen.
The two men were convicted of capital murder in connection with the 1991 murders of four girls in the I Can't Believe It's Yogurt Shop in North Austin.
Both those convictions were later thrown out on appeal.
Defense attorneys argue new DNA evidence taken from three of the girls does not match their clients and clears them of the crime.
The hearing is scheduled for May 19 and is expected to last two days. It'll be the first time that new DNA evidence will be considered in open court.
If the judge rules Scott and Springsteen have a legal right to reasonable bond for release from jail, it will mean the DNA evidence could ultimately lead to the defendants' exoneration.
