The case of a 19-year-old Houston man charged with first-degree murder was reviewed last week in Steelville.
Andrew J. Vrba is charged with murder, armed criminal action and abandonment of a corpse in the September 2017 death of Joseph M. Steinfeld, who went by “Ally” and planned to transition to a female, according to family members. Authorities allege the victim was stabbed and the remains burned.
If convicted, Vrba could face the death penalty. His case is being held in Crawford County on a change of venue.
Circuit Judge Sidney Pearson III ruled that that court proceedings will be recorded.
No trial date has been set.
Two other defendants were previously sentenced, and another, Briana Calderas, still faces a trial. A pre-trial conference is Dec. 5. A trial in Pulaski County is Feb. 25-March 1. She is charged with first-degree murder, armed criminal action and abandonment of a corpse.