Suspect In Cochran Photo Scandal Set For Trial

CANTON, Miss. (AP) – A political blogger who shook up last year’s Senate election by photographing U.S. Sen. Thad Cochran’s bedridden wife is set for trial March 30, with a plea deadline of this Friday.

Clayton Kelly of Pearl appeared briefly Monday before Madison County Circuit Judge William Chapman III for a status update on the case. The Clarion-Ledger (http://on.thec-l.com/1HoqCiA) reports it was Kelly’s first court appearance since his October indictment on charges of conspiracy, attempted burglary and burglary.

Kelly is alleged to have photographed Rose Cochran without permission in a nursing home and posted her image online. Investigators have said conspirators intended to use images of Rose Cochran to advance allegations that her husband, the senator, was having an inappropriate relationship.

Thad Cochran won re-election while 73-year-old Rose Cochran died in December.