Jury selection underway for ex-lawmaker in Okla.

Former OK State Rep. Randy Terrill is best known for his rabidly anti-immigrant legislation. Official photo.

OKLAHOMA CITY (AP) — Jury selection is underway in the trial of a former Oklahoma lawmaker accused of bribery.

Former Rep. Randy Terrill of Moore is accused of offering to set up former Democratic Sen. Debbe Leftwich of Oklahoma City with a state job in exchange for promising not to seek re-election so a Republican colleague of Terrill's could seek her open seat.

Oklahoma County Judge Cindy Truong questioned potential jurors Monday, saying the trial could last up to two weeks.

Terrill, a Republican, was still a member of the Legislature when District Attorney David Prater filed bribery charges against him and Leftwich in 2010. Leftwich's trial is set for Dec. 9.

Defense attorneys claimed their actions were constitutionally protected. Both face up to two years in prison and a $1,000 fine if convicted.

 

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October 21, 2013