By AP
Oklahoma City, OK – Okla. lawmakers question investigation panel rules
OKLAHOMA CITY (AP) A special investigative committee formed to look into the activities of a state representative charged with bribery is under fire from lawmakers concerned that its activities will be closed to the public.
The House Special Investigative Committee will investigate Rep. Randy Terrill, R-Moore.
Terrill is accused of a scheme to give former Sen. Debbe Leftwich an $80,000-per-year state job in exchange for not seeking re-election so Rep. Mike Christian could run for it. A bribery count was filed against Leftwich, who didn't seek re-election, but Christian wasn't charged.
Both deny the allegations.
Terrill's attorney, Stephen Jones, says closing the proceedings is an attempt to protect current or ex-legislative members who may be witnesses.
But legal counsel Andy Lester says the rules are designed to provide a fair process.