SCRANTON �?? The federal judge assigned to hear former senator Robert Mellow�??s case has recused himself from presiding over the proceedings.

U.S. District Judge A. Richard Caputo issue an order today removing himself from the case. The order states only that Caputo �??finds it necessary�?� to recuse himself. It does not cite the specific reason why.

Mellow was charged last week with conspiracy to commit mail fraud and tax evasion. Federal prosecutors say Mellow illegally used senate staff members to perform campaign and fundraising work for himself and others on state time.

Mellow has signed a plea agreement with prosecutors, but no date has been set yet for him to enter the plea.