Associated Press Published

Figure in W.Va. Corruption Probe Wants Trial Moved

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A central figure in the federal corruption investigation in Mingo County wants his trial moved out of the county.
 
     Lawyers for 65-year-old George White of Delbarton say their client can’t get a fair trial in Mingo County.
 
     The Charleston Gazette reports that White’s lawyers filed a motion last week in Mingo County Circuit Court requesting a change of venue.
 
     Former Mingo County prosecutor Michael Sparks has pleaded guilty to depriving White of his constitutional rights. Former Mingo County Circuit Court Judge Michael Thornsbury has pleaded guilty to conspiring to deprive White of his rights. They were charged in a scheme to protect the late Sheriff Eugene Crum from revelations that Crum bought drugs from White.
 
     White’s lawyers say Thornsbury and Sparks held significant political influence in Mingo County.