Man accused of murdering missing teen appears in court in El Centro

EL CENTRO, Calif. (KYMA) - The man accused of murdering a missing teen appeared in an El Centro courthouse Wednesday.

Last week, 51-year-old Abraham Feinbloom pled not guilty in connection with the disappearance and death of 17-year-old T'neya Tovar.

Feinbloom was represented by his private attorney, Melanie Roe, who submitted a substitution of attorney to take over the case, which had previously been handled by the public defender's office.

Judge Monica Lepe-Negrete oversaw the case and noted that multiple agencies, including the FBI may have discovery for both the District Attorney's Office and the defense.

"It's multi-agencies I believe, and even the FBI may have some discovery available so you all want some time to figure out your business and come back to court," Judge Lepe-Negrete said.

Tovar's biological father, Josh Carter, sat in the courthouse. After the hearing, he said he feels it is important to show up.

He thanked the outpouring of support from the community.

"We're holding on as best as we can. We all holding on strong and I tell my friends and my family, and I'll tell any of y'all, the support that I gather from y'all is what keeps me going strong and I'm here to keep y'all going strong as well," Carter said.

Feinbloom is expected back in court on April 13.