Alabama Sheriff Seeking Trial Delay Claims to Have Contracted Coronavirus

Attorneys for an embattled Alabama sheriff—who is currently facing felony theft charges—falsely claimed in court documents that he was being tested for COVID-19, also known as coronavirus.

According to CBS News , Limestone County (AL) Sheriff Mike Blakely was recently hospitalized with a respiratory problem, but doctors confirmed to the court that the illness was not the one seizing national headlines.

The 69-year-old law enforcement officer was indicted last year on multiple felony counts and one misdemeanor alleging he stole campaign donations and used his position as sheriff to obtain interest-free loans.