Harry Baker finally made it to court on Tuesday, after missing his first three scheduled appearances. His appearance confirmed what his lawyer had been telling the court all along: Baker is not well.

The long-time Madera County civic leader and president of Sierra Telephone came to court in a wheelchair, his lap covered with a blanket. Perhaps the most startling thing about his appearance was the tracheotomy tube in his neck to help him breathe. He also wore a surgical mask.

While Baker did not actually speak, he nodded in response to Judge Houry Sanderson. The 82-year-old entered a not guilty plea to charges he committed a lewd act with a 13-year-old girl in May, 2007.

Baker’s attorney says his client is the victim of an elaborate blackmail scheme by the girl’s family. He has acknowledged that Baker touched the girl, but says it was in a “non-sexual” manner.

Sanderson set Baker’s next hearing for Jan. 6, 2010, but said he is excused from attending. If there is a preliminary hearing, Baker must be present. He remains out on bail.