Judge rejects new trial in SC betting case

COLUMBIA, S.C. (AP) — A federal judge has rejected a request for a new trial for three men convicted of running an illegal gambling business in Columbia. U.S. District Judge Cameron McGowan Currie on Monday rejected the request for Brett Parker, Jack Parker and Douglas Taylor. The men were convicted in September. The request for a new trial came after allegations against a key prosecution witness. Defense attorneys said they should have been told about claims pending against Ben Staples, a Lexington accountant and mortgage banker. The U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission filed a civil complaint against Staples days after a jury convicted the Parkers and Taylor. They are to be sentenced Dec. 18. Brett Parker is serving two life prison sentences for killing his wife and a business partner last year.