Murder Trial Of Josh Pendelton Enters Week Two

The murder trial of a Webster County man continues into its second week. Fort Dodge resident Joshua Pendelton is on trial, he is accused of killing Rev. Al Henderson. On October 2nd 2019, Henderson was killed outside of St. Paul Lutheran Church.

Pendelton’s trial began last week, after being delayed due to the pandemic and a period of restoring his mental competency. The trial was moved to Scott County after a change of venue was granted, given the heavy local media attention to the case.

The prosecution opened the trial by calling and questioning witnesses. The prosecution rested late last week and the defense began to call witnesses.

Last Friday, Pendleton’s mom took the stand to testify to his well documented history of mental illness. Court records show that, Heidi Pendelton said her son’s mental health issues began nearly two decades ago. Josh Pendelton was diagnosed with schizophrenia and then treated for the illness. Court records also show, that Pendelton’s mom testified that her son has not been taking his medication as directed. She saw him just weeks prior to the incident and said at that time, he was not taking his medication.

Pendelton’s trial is ongoing and is expected to be completed later this week.