Alex Constantine - June 29, 2008
The Associated Press
http://www.kentucky.com
LEXINGTON, KY. -- An attorney for a Knott County official who was convicted by a federal jury of election fraud said the official will stay in office while he fights the charge.
Judge-Executive Randall C. Thompson was one of four county officials who were convicted Thursday in a scheme to offer paving work in exchange for votes.
His attorney, Terry D. Jacobs, said he will continue to show up for work as long as he is allowed to do so.
Allison Martin, spokeswoman for the state Attorney General's Office, said state law allows Thompson to stay in office while his appeals are pending, even if he is in prison.
Thompson was were found guilty on one count of conspiracy to buy votes and conspiracy to misappropriate federal funds and one count of misappropriating federal funds.
Federal prosecutors said the officials conspired to pave private driveways and repair private bridges in exchange for votes.
http://www.kentucky.com/471/story/447015.html