Court Orders Trial for Transportation Secretary

FRANKFORT, KY (February 28, 2006) – The Franklin District Court has ruled today that Transportation Secretary Bill Nighbert must stand trial for retaliating against a whistleblower in the merit hiring probe. Nighbert moved to dismiss the indictment, claiming that it was covered by Governor Ernie Fletcher’s pardon.

"The Court has ruled that threats of physical violence against a woman who bravely revealed government corruption are not pardoned,” Stumbo said. “The Grand Jury has protected this courageous whistleblower. Now a trial jury will decide this matter.” Stumbo said.

Trial is set for July 26, 2006 at 9:30 a.m. in the Franklin District Court.