By Associated Press - Monday, February 10, 2014

NEW CUMBERLAND, W.Va. (AP) - A special prosecutor will be appointed to handle an embezzlement case involving former Weirton Mayor Mark Harris.

Hancock County prosecutor Jim Davis has recused himself because of an unspecified conflict of interest.

The Weirton Times (https://bit.ly/1eKtPwp ) reports that Circuit Court Judge David J. Sims filed an order last week saying he would refer the case to the West Virginia Prosecuting Attorneys Institute for appointment of a special prosecutor.

Sims was assigned to the case after Circuit Court Judge Martin J. Gaughan recused himself for an unspecified conflict of interest.

The 44-year-old Harris is accused of stealing more than $16,000 donated for a skate park. He was indicted in September 2013 on embezzlement and conspiracy charges. His wife was charged with conspiracy.

Harris has asked the court to dismiss the indictment.

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Information from: The Weirton Daily Times, https://www.weirtondailytimes.com

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