Another continuation granted in Ferguson case

Chase County District Court Judge Patrick Heng granted another continuation in the case of Tristan Ferguson in a hearing Nov. 15. This came after another continuation granted Oct. 25.
Ferguson’s attorney, Erin Wetzel of Omaha, who appeared telephonically, said discussions of a plea agreement continue with County Attorney Joel Burke, who is representing the case for the state.
Charges filed against Ferguson include manslaughter, a Class IIA felony, and possession of a firearm in committing a felony, a Class II felony. They stem from the shooting death of Jesse Krausnick, 19, at Ferguson’s Imperial residence Nov. 24, 2022.
Wetzel said negotiations for a plea agreement are underway but nothing has been agreed to yet by the state. She asked for another continuation, at which time she anticipates a plea may be entered.
Judge Heng set the hearing for 3 p.m. MT Jan. 4, 2024 in Chase County District Court. If the matter is not solved at that time, Heng said the case will be set for trial.
Ferguson, who was present at the Nov. 15 hearing, remains free on bond. He has pled not guilty to both charges.
The penalty for the Class IIA manslaughter carries a sentence from 0 to 20 years. The Class II gun charge carries a minimum sentence of one year up to a maximum of 50 years. This sentence must be served following the completion of any other sentence imposed.