Monserrate To Go To Trial For Assault Charge

(AP) -- Embattled state Sen. Hiram Monserrate could lose his seat if he's convicted of assaulting his girlfriend during an argument.

A judge in Queens ruled Thursday that Monserrate will go to trial on Sept. 14.

Both say the incident was an accident and have asked the case be dismissed. But investigators say video shows him attacking her.

Monserrate was elected to the Senate after serving in the New York City Council.

He was one of the Democrats responsible for the coup that caused a monthlong leadership deadlock in the state Legislature.