Jerry Sandusky, a former assistant coach at Penn State, has waived his right for a preliminary hearing, preferring to present his case in trial. In Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, preliminary hearings are held to determine whether a full trial should take place. Because the case has already been through a grand jury, the defense did not believe a preliminary hearing was necessary.

Sandusky has been in the media spotlight since reports of his alleged sexual assault against children have been brought forth. It is alleged that Sandusky abused a number of children over the course of his tenure at Penn State, many of whom he met while operating a charity that he founded in order to assist struggling youth.

Sandusky had been suspected of sexually abusing children in the past, but no charges had been brought against him until now.

The waiving of the hearing was said by observers to be a move that allows the defense to fully plead their case in a court of law. It also prevents Sandusky and other key witnesses from having to testify twice.

Grand jury testimony from the early 2000s is one of the biggest pieces of evidence against Sandusky's claim of innocence. Sandusky argues that his relationship with the children was that of "extended family," stressing that any physical contact they had was not abusive. During the trial to come, the alleged victims will be required to testify about the abuse supposedly incurred by Sandusky.

A date for the trial has not yet been set.

Two other university officials also face charges for perjury and failing to report the alleged abuse.

Source: Detroit Free Press, "Ex-Penn State coach Sandusky waives hearing," Dec. 13, 2011