They also lost their attempt to have several potential witnesses for the prosecution disqualified to testify in next week’s trial.

Clay will go on trial for a single count of felony sexual battery, in connection with a sexual relationship with a 15-year-old female student.

Judge Jeffrey Welbaum is allowing the prosecution to offer evidence of an audio taped conversation between Clay and the alleged victim. Welbaum also ruled that the prosecution witnesses can testify regarding what they saw.

Just days after Clay was charged with sexual battery charge in December of last year, his home on Troy-Sidney Road near Piqua was set on fire.

The fire has been ruled arson, but no one has been charged with setting the fire or spray-painting racial slurs on Clay’s car. That incident remains under investigation, according to deputies.

Security is expected to be tight during the trial in Miami County Common Pleas Court.

Previous Stories: May 23, 2008: James Clay Trial Could Be Delayed December 27, 2007: UPDATE:Piqua Town Meeting Generates Support For Family Burned Out Of Home December 27, 2007: James Clay, Family Gain Support After House Fire