Trial Set in Montana Hitchhiker Shooting Case

BILLINGS, Mont. (AP) — A Montana prosecutor says a hitchhiker accused of shooting himself then concocting a tale about getting shot by a passing motorist faces a Jan. 8 trial.

Valley County Attorney Nicholas Murnion said Tuesday he has been in discussions with the defendant's attorney and a plea agreement is possible.

Ray Dolin of Julian, W.V. pleaded not guilty earlier this month to charges of tampering with evidence, making a false report and obstructing a peace officer.

Authorities say the 39-year-old shot himself in the arm near Glasgow to gain publicity for a planned photographic memoir about kindness. A Washington state man was jailed in the shooting before Dolin allegedly confessed.

Dolin remains out on bond.

Murnion says there is no need for incarceration because Dolin has made all his court appearances voluntarily.