From Deseret News archives:
Workman case moves step closer to trial
A brief status hearing was held before 3rd District Judge Judith Atherton as Workman's case moved another step closer to trial. Workman was not present for the hearing.
Her eight-day trial is scheduled to begin Feb. 1. During Monday's hearing the defense suggested potential jurors be called into court Jan. 28 to fill out questionnaires so attorneys for both sides would have the weekend to review them.
Atherton said she wanted the questionnaires to be brief, noting she didn't find long jury questionnaires "particularly helpful."
The defense also said Monday it does not plan on calling a lot of witnesses during the trial. Outside the courtroom, defense attorney Jack Morgan said his client still wants to go to trial.
Workman is charged with two counts of misusing public funds, one second- and one third-degree felony, for allegedly using county health department funds to help pay two employees who worked at the Boys and Girls Clubs of South Valley. Workman's daughter, Aisza Wilde, was development director for the clubs.
Workman pleaded not guilty to the charges during an arraignment in October.
The charges originally did not deter Workman from her re-election bid, but she eventually dropped out of the race citing physical and emotional stress. She even had a note from her doctor saying she was unable to continue with her campaign.
If convicted, she faces a sentence of up to 20 years in prison.
E-mail: preavy@desnews.com
