COLUMBIA, S.C. (WSPA) -- Former South Carolina Rep. R.J. May III was given permission by a judge on Thursday to represent himself in trial in federal court next month as he faces a 10-count indictment for possessing child sexual abuse material.

Investigators said they connected him to an account sharing child sexual abuse material through an app called "Kik." The app flagged several videos from an account called "Joe Bidennnn69." Agents said they tracked that activity to May’s home internet and cell phone.

May resigned last month from the House, saying the decision was "in the best interest" of his family and constituents.

Federal public defender Jenny Smith and co-counsel Jeremy Thompson were assigned to his case, but as of Thursday, he will be solo.

May's trial is set for Oct 9, with

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