SC judge considers Harrell’s investigation request

COLUMBIA, S.C. (AP) — A judge in Columbia is considering a request from House Speaker Bobby Harrell to remove South Carolina Attorney General Alan Wilson from an investigation of a complaint against the speaker.

Circuit Judge Casey Manning said Friday the request should be considered in open court and began hearing testimony.

Harrell’s chief of staff testified that Wilson basically threatened the speaker during a meeting last year if he refused to support legislation dealing with a public integrity unit. Wilson also testified, saying he made no threats and was only trying to get the bill passed.

The State Grand Jury is considering the South Carolina Policy Council’s allegations that Harrell used his office to boost his finances and appointed his brother to a judicial screening committee. Harrell has denied any wrongdoing.

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Kinnard can be reached at http://twitter.com/MegKinnardAP