NEW MADRID, Mo. (AP) -- The trial of former Missouri House Speaker Rod Jetton on a charge of assaulting a woman has been put on hold.
The Southeast Missourian reported Monday that new evidence prompted Jetton's lawyers to seek the delay.
The 42-year-old Republican had been scheduled for a two-day trial starting Oct. 28 in New Madrid County on a change of venue from Scott County. No new trial date has been set.
Jetton is accused of punching and choking a 35-year-old woman at her Sikeston home last November. His lawyer says new evidence has surfaced, including text messages and medical information about the woman.
Jetton is charged with second-degree assault, which carries maximum penalties of seven years in prison and a $5,000 fine.