EL DORADO, Ar., (KNOE 8 News) - A federal magistrate accepted a not guilty plea from Ouachita County Judge Mike Hesterly, who is accused in a tornado cleanup scheme, and ordered him to remain in custody until a Tuesday bond hearing.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Barry A. Bryant on Friday set a March 13 trial for Hesterly and 39-year-old Harry Clemons Jr. of Bearden. Clemmons also pleaded not guilty but was not jailed.
A federal indictment unsealed Thursday charges the men with conspiracy to defraud the federal government by rigging bids for a $70,000 tornado cleanup contract in 2009.
Clemmons landed the contract and allegedly gave Hesterly a $5,000 campaign contribution.
Each man is also charged with bribery.
The Arkansas Democrat-Gazette reports (http://is.gd/DgNk7G ) prosecutors wanted Hesterly in custody because he allegedly threatened witnesses and an FBI investigator.
Friday, May 17 2013 12:09 PM EDT2013-05-17 16:09:18 GMT
FARMERVILLE, La. (KNOE 8 News) - The family of a Farmerville teen who died at football practice last week says it is overwhelmed by the community's gratitude.
FARMERVILLE, La. (KNOE 8 News) - The family of a Farmerville teen who died at football practice last week says it is overwhelmed by the community's gratitude.
