TEXARKANA, Ark. (AP) -- Evangelist Tony Alamo (uh-LAH'-moh) appeared in court today in Arkansas for a brief hearing on a federal charge accusing him of transporting minors across state lines for sex.

It was Alamo's first appearance since his Sept. 25 arrest in Flagstaff, five days after his west Arkansas compound was raided and six girls were taken into protective custody.

A federal grand jury indicted Alamo on the charge that he violated the Mann Act, which prohibits bringing children across state lines for sex. The grand jury also indicted Alamo on aiding and abetting the transfer of children across state lines for sex.

During today's hearing, the 74-year-old Alamo said he understood the charges but that he couldn't read them. Alamo has said he's legally blind.

Another hearing will be held Wednesday to determine whether Alamo can be released pending trial.

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