Jury selection has begun in the second criminal trial of former state Rep. Thomas Wright.
The Wilmington Democrat is charged with obstruction of justice for failing to disclose more than $100,000 in campaign contributions, David Ingram reports. He was convicted in April of three separate charges related to financial improprieties.
A former top ally of then House Speaker Jim Black, Wright was once among the most powerful members of the House.
Judge Donald Stephens on Monday denied a motion from Wright's lawyer to dismiss the obstruction of justice charge. Wright's lawyer Doug Harris of Greensboro had argued that obstruction of justice must involve an inquiry by investigators in the criminal justice system. But Stephens ruled that the charge can cover the state Board of Elections' campaign finance requirements.
Opening statements could start as early as today.
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