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WASHINGTON COUNTY, N.Y. – There is a new development in the Matthew Slocum case.

Washington County Judge Kelly McKeighan has ruled that Slocum's confessions in a triple murder can be used as evidence against him when his case goes to trial later this month.

Slocum took the stand in a preliminary hearing on January 5th. He testified he asked for a lawyer while being questioned by police, but that he was never granted one. Slocum also said in court that he never made any self-incriminating statements.

Police officials, on the other hand, said he never asked outright for an attorney, showed full understanding of his Miranda Rights and answered questions willingly.

During questioning, police said Slocum admitted to gunning down his mother, his step-father and his step-brother before lighting their White Creek home on fire. He then fled in his mother's car with his girlfriend, Loretta Colegrove, and their infant son.

At the time of his arrest, Slocum said Colegrove had nothing to do with the killings. But Washington County Public Defender Michael Mercure now says Colegrove is responsible for the murders.

Slocum has pleaded not guilty to the 11 charges against him. Jury selection is set for February 27th.