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Fargo, N.D. (AP) A man convicted of killing and dismembering his friend is seeking a new trial, saying he should have been allowed to testify in his own defense.

Dennis Gaede was in court Wednesday at a hearing on his appeal.

The 45-year-old Gaede was convicted of killing Timothy Wicks in 2001 in Gaede's home in Gardner, north of Fargo. Gaede is serving a life sentence without parole.

Wicks' dismembered body was found along the Wisconsin-Michigan border.

Gaede said in court Wednesday that his attorney should have allowed him to testify on his own behalf. He also listed witnesses that he believes should have testified.

Gaede will testify again in July when the hearing resumes. His former attorney, Steve Mottinger, also is expected to testify.

Mottinger declined comment earlier.

Information from: The Forum, http://www.in-forum.com (Copyright 2009 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.) APNP 05-28-09 0925CDT | save this article / add to your favorites list