A Vandalia man charged with multiple counts of predatory criminal sexual assault of a victim under the age of 13 appeared in Fayette County Court Tuesday. 27-year old Matthew Crawford of Vandalia appeared for a motion hearing. However, Crawford’s counsel, public defender Ed Potter, requested to approach the bench prior to the start of the hearing. After a brief discussion between Potter, Assistant State’s Attorney Brenda Mathis and Judge Don Scheafor, the hearing started with Potter informing the court that a motion was being entered for him to withdraw as Crawford’s counsel due to a conflict. Potter stated that another man he represents who is in custody of the Fayette County Jail had informed Potter that he had information he was wishing to give to the State to possibly be used in the case against Crawford. Due to that information, Potter informed the court that he felt that he was in a tough position and was seeking to withdraw as counsel for both Crawford as well as the other defendant he currently represents. Over the objection of the state, Judge Scheafor granted the motion for the withdrawal. After initially then appointing a new public defender in Jeff DeLong, the court then appointed Walter Lookofsky as Crawford’s counsel as DeLong informed the court that he had a conflict as well due to earlier representation of Crawford. The matter is now set for an appearance with new counsel Lookofsky and possible pre-trial on October 18 at 9am.