Tuesday a Lauderdale County jury heard the opening statements in the trial of former judge Gilbert Self. The Lauderdale County native is being charged with 18 counts of the use of office for personal or family members gain, making a false representation to examiners of public accounts, and perjury.

Opening statements wrapped up Monday afternoon, and both sides came out painting two very different pictures of the former judge.

The state went first today as attorney Jasper Roberts laid out what exactly what they’re going to attempt to prove during the trial. He listed out several instances Self used his office for personal gain including: vacations he says Self used department funds to go on, hiring his son at the Lauderdale County Courthouse without experience, and keeping funds intended

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