Updated 12/23/19

Prosecutors want to ask potential jurors about an Alabama sheriff awaiting trial on multiple ethics and theft charges.

Prosecutors have asked a judge for permission to distribute a questionnaire to potential jurors who could hear the case against Limestone County Sheriff Mike Blakely.

The state is asking to focus on specific issues in Blakely’s case. Prosecutors also want to ask about Blakely’s status as sheriff, an office he has held for almost 37 years.

Blakely’s trial is scheduled to begin early next year.

The sheriff was arrested in August on charges that include accusations of taking thousands of dollars from campaign and law enforcement accounts.

He is free on bond and remains in office.

Blakely has pleaded not guilty.