WASHINGTON COUNTY, N.Y. -- Matthew Slocum will be in court today for preliminary trial proceedings ahead of jury selection next week. Slocum is accused of killing three people, including his mother, before burning down their White Creek home.

A Washington County judge ruled earlier this month that Slocum's confessions to a police officer can be used in his trial. He said he asked for a lawyer while being questioned by police, but that he was never granted one. But police officials said he never asked outright for an attorney, showed a full understanding of his Miranda rights, and answered questions willingly.

Slocum pleaded not guilty to the 11 charges against him.

Jury selection begins on Monday.