Court hearing delayed for 900 pound man

NEW YORK (FOX 5 NY) - A hearing scheduled in Virginia in a cocaine conspiracy case has been delayed after the 900-pound  defendant had to be taken to the hospital.

U.S. Magistrate Judge David J. Novak continued the hearing for Kenneth T. Hicks, 48,  until a week from Tuesday.  It's expected that Hicks will plead guilty in the case.

Novak revoked Hicks' bond and directed that for Hicks' own safety and dignity - he cannot wear clothing - that he arrive via an ambulance and appear in the loading dock of a courthouse for proceedings.

After he left his home in Emporia, Hicks was taken to VCU Medical Center in Richmond.  He was having toxicology tests, according to his lawyer.

A federal judge had approved an unusual court transportation plan for Hicks, of Emporia.

Hicks lives in a dwelling attached to the rear of a mobile home. The plan to get him to the courthouse involved cutting through a wall, bracing the structure and potentially cutting down some trees.

Hicks had asked that the FBI, the U.S. Marshals Service, first responders and others assess any medical issues he may have.

Hicks was allowed to make an initial court appearance in March through a video link.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.