BURLINGTON, Vt. (AP) - A former Vermont lawmaker accused of trying to extract sexual favors in exchange for rent says he was strong-armed into a plea agreement by his lawyers.
Former Republican state Sen. Norman McAllister testified Friday during a bid to withdraw his plea and essentially reset his case. The Burlington Free Press (https://bfpne.ws/2k7aPPu ) reports that the hearing will continue at a later date.
McAllister pleaded no contest to a count of lewd and lascivious conduct and two counts of prohibited acts under an agreement in which prosecutors dropped a more serious charge of sexual assault.
McAllister entered into the plea agreement last month on the eve of a new trial. He said he has maintained his innocence “from day one.”
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Information from: The Burlington Free Press, https://www.burlingtonfreepress.com
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