Wecht Defense Asks Judge To Recuse Himself From Case

Doctor Cyril Wecht is fighting to avoid another trial.

His defense team is arguing that the case against the former county coroner should be closed for good.

A jury couldn't come to a verdict on whether Wecht used his public office to make money for his private practice.

Wecht's defense said that's despite a judge who's out to get their client.

Wecht's team also says Judge Schwab was wrong to dismiss one of the jurors in the case.

During deliberations, the court record states that Stanley Albright requested to be excused for health reasons.

But Albright said, "That is simply not accurate. I never requested to be excused."

Prosecutors have accused Wecht and his defense team of making their case through the media. Plans for a retrial are going forward.

Previous Stories: April 17, 2008: Juror Says Jury In Wecht Trial Split In Favor Of Conviction On 17 Counts April 16, 2008: Local Leaders Team Up To End Prosecution Of Wecht April 11, 2008: Rep. Doyle Issues Statement On Wecht Retrial April 8, 2008: Jurors Deadlocked; Judge Declares Mistrial In Wecht Case