Joseph Nevera trial begins in Morgantown murder case

Jury selection and opening arguments scheduled for today in the 2024 death of Kim Osborne

Apr. 14, 2026 at 4:20am

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An extreme close-up of a cracked and weathered piece of jewelry, its surface reflecting the harsh light of the camera flash, conveying a sense of the gravity and intensity of the criminal investigation.The harsh lighting and stark contrast of this crime scene evidence photograph evokes the somber and serious tone of the ongoing murder trial.Morgantown Today

The trial of Joseph Nevera, 52, of Morgantown, West Virginia, is set to begin today in Monongalia County Circuit Court. Nevera is charged with first-degree murder in the 2024 death of his former girlfriend and domestic partner, Kim Osborne, 47, whose remains were found in a shallow grave later that year.

Why it matters

This high-profile case has drawn significant local attention, as Osborne's disappearance and the subsequent discovery of her body raised concerns about domestic violence and the need for better support systems in the Morgantown community.

The details

Authorities say Nevera pleaded not guilty following his arrest shortly after Osborne's remains were found in November 2024 on Little Indian Creek Road, near her family's property and the residence she had once shared with Nevera. Osborne's relatives had become alarmed after she failed to show up for a Mother's Day gathering at the family home, which they said was uncharacteristic of her.

  • Jury selection is set for 9 a.m. on April 14, 2026.
  • Opening arguments are scheduled for around 1 p.m. on April 14, 2026.

The players

Joseph Nevera

A 52-year-old Morgantown resident charged with first-degree murder in the 2024 death of his former girlfriend and domestic partner, Kim Osborne.

Kim Osborne

A 47-year-old woman whose remains were found in a shallow grave in November 2024, with authorities ruling her death a homicide.

Autumn Pope

Osborne's cousin, who previously told The Dominion Post that Osborne's failure to show up for a family gathering was uncharacteristic of her.

Cindy Scott

The circuit judge hearing the case against Joseph Nevera.

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What they’re saying

“That wasn't like Kim at all.”

— Autumn Pope, Osborne's cousin

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on the admissibility of certain evidence and witness testimony during the trial, which is expected to last several weeks.

The takeaway

This tragic case highlights the ongoing need for greater awareness and support around domestic violence issues in the Morgantown community, as well as the importance of thorough investigations to ensure justice is served.