Private Investigator Wants Statement Blocked

LAFAYETTE, La. (AP) — The private investigator accused of securing special plea deals by handing out gifts and cash at the 15th Judicial District Attorney's Office wants to block federal prosecutors from using a statement he gave to agents during a 2012 search of his home.

The Advocate reports Robert Williamson argued Thursday that statements he gave while agents scoured his home for evidence should be thrown out because investigators never advised him of his right to remain silent or to contact an attorney.

Williamson faces trial June 8 on charges of fraud, bribery and lying to a federal agent in an investigation that already has netted guilty pleas from five others.

U.S. Magistrate Judge Patrick Hanna said he plans to rule on the issue by next week.

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Information from: The Advocate, http://theadvocate.com

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