Local

Ruben Ebron trial postponed after prosecution witness arrested

DUVAL COUNTY, Fla. — The trial for a man at the center of the disappearance of missing toddler Lonzie Barton has been postponed.

Jury selection for Ruben Ebron was supposed to begin Monday. However, a judge granted a continuance. The next status hearing will be Jan. 19.

Defense attorneys asked to waive a speedy trial and blamed the delay on witness and evidence issues.

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Action News Jax learned that a key witness for the prosecution in the case has been arrested, which could the reason for the delay.

A woman believed to be the last known person to see Ebron with Lonzie was arrested in Duval County, and she has not yet been questioned by attorneys, which is necessary before she can give her testimony.

Lonzie's distant cousin, Sabra Rhue, said the delay is disappointing.

"I was hoping something would come out soon about where the baby was at," Rhue said.

Ebron is charged with child neglect, tampering with evidence and lying to police in connection with the disappearance of Lonzie.

Lonzie's mother, Lonna Lauramore Barton, pleaded guilty last week and testified that Ebron was a drug dealer and carried out drug deals while caring for her two young children.

"I just want him found and brought home,” Rhue said. “I want justice for him. I want to know what happened to him."