DeLay Judge to Wait for Court Ruling

DeLay judge nixes Dec. 27 hearing

Won't separate criminal charges; Novak: DeLay told colleagues circle date.

AUSTIN, Texas, Dec. 17, 2005

(AP) A state district judge said Saturday he will not immediately consider separating two criminal charges against Rep. Tom DeLay to allow an early trial, another blow to the former House majority leader's hopes of regaining his post.Earlier this month, Senior Judge Pat Priest dismissed a conspiracy charge against DeLay but refused to throw out more serious allegations of money laundering. Travis County District Attorney Ronnie Earle served notice Monday that he intends to ask an appeals court to reinstate the conspiracy charge.