Judge Self Found Guilty on 17 Counts

Big news out of Lauderdale County! Suspended Judge Gil Self has been convicted on 17 of the 18 charges he faced after a three-week trial. Talk about a role reversal – Self, who once presided over the courtroom, found himself in the defendant's seat.

The Charges and Verdicts

Self was accused of perjury, using his position for personal gain, and misusing over $140,000 in public funds. Here's a breakdown:

• Use of official position for personal gain (16 counts): 14 guilty (felony), 1 guilty (misdemeanor - alcohol purchase), 1 not guilty (employment of son).

• False representation to Examiners of Public Accounts: Guilty (felony).

• Perjury before the Lauderdale County grand jury: Guilty (felony).

Specific Examples

The jury found Self guilty of using court funds for personal purchases like a couch for his home, his son’s diploma frame, and eyeglasses. Reimbursed trips that were deemed improper included getaways to Reno, Nevada; Duck Key, Florida; and Mackinac Island, Michigan, as well as a cross-state bike trip.

The Defense and Sentencing

The defense claimed Self lacked adequate training in managing public funds and argued that any errors were unintentional. They emphasized that Self repaid the questioned funds. Sentencing is scheduled for December 17th before retired Judge Tim Jolley.

A Loss for the Defense

Tragically, lead defense attorney Bryce Graham, Jr., passed away last Sunday after working on the case.