CINCINNATI – A federal judge has rejected prosecutors' effort to cut back jail phone access for an Ohio man accused of plotting to attack the U.S. Capitol and has agreed to let his attorney approve his outside contacts.
Christopher Lee Cornell called a Cincinnati TV station and said if he hadn't been arrested he'd have shot President Barack Obama.
U.S. District Judge Sandra Beckwith said Tuesday there isn't evidence Cornell had contacted "like-minded" people.
Prosecutors cited security concerns about easy phone access for a "self-proclaimed supporter" of Islamic State militants.
The judge warned Cornell he risks having his phone access withdrawn if he abuses his privileges. She says he should consult with his attorneys before making calls to anyone other than counsel or family.
Cornell has pleaded not guilty to charges including attempted murder of government employees and officials.
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