A federal judge has rescheduled former Massey
CEO Don Blankenship's criminal trial for April 20 at 9 a.m. in Beckley
Jan. 5, the day prior to the original Jan. 6
pre-trial hearing date, U.S. Judge Irene Berger granted a previous motion by
the defense to move the trial. The pretrial hearing is now scheduled for March
3 at 10:30 a.m.
Blankenship, who was charged with conspiracy
to violate federal mine safety and health standards, conspiracy to impede
federal mine safety officials, making false statements to the U.S. Securities
and Exchange Commission and securities fraud. He faces up to 31 years in prison
if convicted.
Additionally, pretrial motions are to be
filed no later than Feb. 6. Any motion by either party seeking a plea hearing
must be filed by April 6.
