SKOWHEGAN (AP) — A Bingham man who spent nine years in prison for using the blunt end of an ax and a gun stock to bludgeon another man to death in 2000 is facing probation violation charges.

Authorities say a loaded handgun, beer and marijuana were found at the home of 66-year-old Bruce Morris during a routine probation check last weekend.

Morris was barred from having guns, alcohol or drugs following his conviction on a manslaughter charge in 2001 in the alcohol-fueled slaying the previous year of Karl Goeman. Morris claimed self-defense.

Somerset County Sheriff Dale Lancaster says Morris was released from prison in November 2010.

The Morning Sentinel (http://bit.ly/1Bs7u14 ) reported that Morris told police the gun belonged to his brother while the beer and pot had been left behind by other guests.