ATHENS, Ala. (AP) – A longtime Alabama sheriff is trying to prevent jurors in his upcoming theft trial from hearing about his gambling and drinking practices.
Lawyers for Limestone County Sheriff Mike Blakely have asked a judge to block prosecutors from using such evidence, The Decatur Daily reported Friday.
But prosecutors say Blakely made gambling part of the case by his trips to casinos, and jurors should hear the evidence. They also say they can’t control whether witnesses talk about alcohol consumption.
Blakely, 69, was indicted last year on multiple theft and ethics charges but remains in office. He pleaded not guilty and his trial is set for March 9, but a hearing on a defense request to delay the trial is set for Monday.
Blakely’s lawyers asked to exclude evidence in court documents filed under seal last month, the newspaper reported, and a response filed Wednesday by the state referenced the contents.