Feds: Indicted W.Va. sheriff abused power before - Beckley, Bluefield & Lewisburg News, Weather, Sports

Feds: Indicted W.Va. sheriff abused power before

MORGANTOWN, W.Va. (AP) -

By VICKI SMITH
Associated Press

Prosecutors preparing to try a West Virginia sheriff accused of beating a bank robbery suspect in 2010 say they have evidence he's abused his power before.

Documents filed in U.S. District Court in Martinsburg include testimony that Jefferson County Sheriff Robert Shirley gave during a 2004 sentencing hearing in another case. The transcript reveals Shirley admitted firing a gun while on duty during a personal dispute.

No charges were filed.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Paul Camilletti argues it shows Shirley's readiness to abuse his power.

Defense attorney Kevin Mills believes the evidence is inadmissible. He says media coverage could compromise Shirley's right to a fair trial.

Shirley is accused of beating Mark Daniel Haines after police chase and later falsifying records.

He's denied any wrongdoing and faces trial Jan. 22.

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