Anne Arundel County Executive John Leopold waived his right to a jury trial in his misconduct case and instead will allow a judge to decide his guilt or innocence.
Judge Dennis Sweeney granted the request Thursday morning and dismissed a pool of potential jurors.
Leopold is facing charges of misconduct in office for allegedly using his police detail for personal and political purposes. Among other allegations, prosecutors say the 69-year-old Republican used county police officers as security while he had sex with a county employee inside a vehicle in parking lots.
Leopold has maintained his innocence. Opening statements are scheduled for Friday.
Copyright The Associated Press
