Alabama sheriff’s criminal trial set for July

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Mike Blakely
This booking photograph released by the Limestone Sheriff's Office shows Sheriff Mike Blakely following his arrest on theft and ethics charges on Aug. 22, 2019. (Limestone County Sheriff's Office via AP)

A new trial date has been set for an Alabama sheriff who faces 11 theft and ethics charges.

Limestone County Sheriff Mike Blakely was indicted in August 2019 on charges that included accusations of stealing from the sheriff’s office. He is accused of taking money from election campaign funds, Limestone County funds, and using his influence to obtain interest-free loans, authorities said.

Court records show pretrial motions will be heard virtually on April 12. The case is set for trial at Limestone County Courthouse on July 12, multiple news outlets reported Thursday.

Blakely, who is currently Alabama’s longest-serving sheriff, pleaded not guilty in 2019. He has remained in office pending the outcome of the case.

A new judge was appointed to the case last month. The Alabama Supreme Court appointed retired appellate Judge Pam Baschab of Colbert County to preside. She replaced Judge Pride Tompkins, who recused himself over personal coronavirus concerns.

The case was previously postponed due to the coronavirus pandemic.

Republished with the permission of the Associated Press.