FRANKFORT, Ky., June 9 (UPI) -- A lawyer for Kentucky Gov. Ernie Fletcher pleaded innocent on his behalf Friday on charges he approved an illegal patronage scheme.
Franklin District Judge David Melcher earlier granted a Fletcher request to have his lawyer enter the plea, The Courier-Journal, a Louisville, Ky., newspaper, said. Trial is set for Nov. 8.
The judge said he would not enter a gag order, but asked lawyers on both sides to keep their public comments to what they say in court filings.
Fletcher, a doctor and a Republican, faces three misdemeanor charges based on allegations he oversaw a plan to reward supporters with civil service jobs and promotions, the newspaper said.
A single charge of official misconduct carries up to 12 months in jail and a $500 fine, the newspaper said. The other two lesser counts carry up to six months in jail and the forfeiture of state office on conviction.
