MURPHYSBORO, IL. (WJPF) – A new judge has been assigned to preside over a Jackson County murder trial set to begin Monday.

Robert Dennis, one of three people charges in the August 2016 death of Robin Steif, asked for the change.

During a pre-trial hearing, Dennis represented himself in court, saying he had not been satisfied with his previous legal representation.

Dennis also claimed to have evidence that would exonerate him, while also making claims as to the motives of the other two suspects, saying they were under the influence of mind altering drugs which led them to murder.

Lauren Stinde has already pleaded guilty to murder charges. She’s awaiting sentencing. Tiesha Anderson is scheduled to go on trial in November.