Two of the Government of Guam workers indicted in the attorney general's corruption investigation were back in court today. Both stood ready to answer to the allegations - just as their co-defendants did last month.

But defendants Richard Ybanez and Jennifer Cruz will have to wait to do so, as the magistrate judge was forced to step away from the case due a conflict.

Superior Court Magistrate Judge Johnathan Quan is disqualifying himself from the case against Ybanez, the former executive manager of the Guam Regional Transit Authority, and former certifying officer Cruz.

"At this point, ladies and gentlemen, this court is going to disqualify itself on this matter as I am familiar with several of the defendants so given that I am going to disqualify myself and I am going to push this to Judge (Benjamin) Sison so he can finish the matter," announced His Honor.

Ybanez and Cruz appearing today in Quan’s courtroom to answer to the charges of theft by deception, conspiracy for misapplication of entrusted funds, and and official misconduct along with special allegation of crime against the community. Prosecutors allege the group, which included GRTA board chair Alejo Sablan, and board members Inalahan mayor Anthony Chargualaf and Hagat mayor Kevin Susuico, were involved in a scheme to have ybanez hold the position of interim executive manager.

It's a position he was never qualified to fill.

Ybanez made his first appearance in court today since the indictment was handed down against him. He declined to say anything about the allegations as he left the courtroom. Cruz also was silent as she left the courthouse.

The case will not be heard next week before Magistrate Judge Benjamin Sison.

Ybanez and cruz are back in court on August 15.