Judge delays ex-lawmakers federal bribery trial

FRANKFORT, Ky. (AP) — A federal judge has delayed the trial of a former state representative accused of bribing a mine inspector to overlook violations at his coal mines.

Rep. Keith Hall’s trial had been scheduled for April 20, but his attorney asked for more time to prepare after learning that the mine inspector would be called to testify.

State mine inspector Kelly Shortridge pleaded guilty in federal court last month to taking about $46,000 in bribes from Hall over two years.

Hall, a Democrat from Phelps, has a new trial date of June 8.

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