Colten Defense Asks For New Judge in Alleged Eavesdropping Case

Andrew Nelson—defense attorney for Hudsonite Patt A. Colten—filed a motion this morning requesting a new judge in the alleged illegal eavesdropping case against his client.

St. Croix County District Court Judge Scott R. Needham granted Nelson's motion, adding Nelson would have to negotiate with the District Attorney's office to determine Colten's next appearance date.

Once a new judge is assigned, he or she will be the third judicial officer to preside over the case after Judge Edward Vlack initially recused himself when his clerk—Kerry Feuerhelm—was named a witness against Colten. 

Before adjourning the hearing, Needham reiterated to Colten that she has the right to request a new judge once, but whomever is appointed in his place will be the judge for the duration of the case. 

Colten was  with illegally intercepting wire or electric communication between River Falls city attorney Maxfield Neuhaus and two witnesses in a conference room outside the courtroom at the .  

Neither Colten nor Nelson issued a comment after the short hearing. Likewise, a request for comment from District Attorney Eric Johnson went unanswered.