Okla. Judge Denies Motion to Move Fisher Trial

An Oklahoma judge recently denied a motion to move the trial of former state Insurance Commissioner Carroll Fisher out of Oklahoma City.

Fisher’s attorney, Robert L. Wyatt IV, had argued in court filings that the trial should be moved to Newkirk, Ardmore or Ada because of extensive media coverage in Oklahoma City.

District Judge Susan Caswell also denied a motion by Fisher’s attorneys to dismiss a bribery count against him because of claims he is being selectively prosecuted. Prosecutors dispute that he was singled out.

Oklahoma Attorney General Drew Edmondson was pleased with the rulings.

“Fisher has tried every legal maneuver in the books to evade trial on these charges,” Edmondson said. “We will continue to fight any future attempts to delay and remain steadfast in our pursuit of justice.”

Fisher, 65, is accused in the bribery case of accepting a $25,000 check and other gifts from Texas businessman Gene E. Phillips, his family and business associates in exchange for favorable treatment.

Fisher claims the $25,000 check was a loan.

Fisher also is accused of embezzling his campaign funds by depositing a $1,000 state campaign check into his overdrawn personal bank account in 2003. He is accused of perjury for never disclosing the $1,000 on campaign reports.

His trial is set for Feb. 6.