A judge has interrupted the sex-crimes trial of evangelist Tony Alamo to give his lawyers a chance to talk him out of testifying.

The 74-year-old pastor has told reporters he wants to speak with jurors directly, but his legal team has recommended against it.

Defense lawyers sought a break until early Wednesday afternoon and planned to meet with their client.

Alamo is named in a 10-count federal indictment alleging he took five young girls across state lines for sex. He has pleaded not guilty.

In testimony early Wednesday, a woman said her daughter who allegedly "married" Alamo at 14 had "adolescent problems" and was sent to live with the minister.

Jurors could get the case later Wednesday.