The judge scheduled a preliminary hearing next week. Verdin is charged with assault with intent to commit a felony, second-degree robbery, assault with a deadly weapon, and grand theft auto. He remains in custody on $320,000 bail.
The alleged attack happened March 12 as the 45-year-old jogger completed her run at Point Dume State Park in Malibu. Prosecutors say Verdin was carrying a knife. During a struggle the victim broke free and tumbled down a 150 foot cliff to the beach below.
Verdin allegedly drove off in the victim's 2004 Toyota Land Cruiser. He was arrested April 2 by Sheriff's detectives after a DNA match identified him as the alleged assailant.
