A glimpse into the “roomful” of Medford trial evidence

Both federal prosecutors and defense attorneys in the corruption trial of former Buncombe County Sheriff Bobby Medford have referred to the amount of evidence as a “roomful” -— either in trying to emphasize how persuasive the case against Medford is or to ask for more time and attorneys to help construct his defense. A new court document gives a detailed glimpse of what that evidence is.

The 35-page document lists everything from money orders and sworn statements to handwritten notes and financial records. All told, it contains 98 separate exhibits, many with multiple documents or items. They include documents and statements from others in the case who have already taken federal plea deals, such as former lieutenants Johnny Harrison and Ronnie “Butch” Davis, Hot Dog King owner Demetre Theodossis and longtime Medford ally and Weaverville businessman Jackie Shepherd.

The trial of Medford and former reserve Capt. Guy Penland begins Tuesday, April 29. Look for full coverage at MountainX.com.

— David Forbes, staff writer

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