Jeff McMahan's Impeachment Trial Costs

Oklahoma State Auditor and Inspector Jeff McMahan is facing a criminal trial for allegations of conspiracy and bribery. He could also face an impeachment trial at the state capitol.

News On 6 reporter Mary Joseph reports before the state Senate trial can begin, a legislative committee must recommend impeachment.

"The House members will have to come back at least one day in a special session to consider those articles of impeachment," said Rep. Rex Duncan (R-District 35).

That one day will cost $25,900 of taxpayers' money. If the state House votes to impeach McMahan, the state Senate trial will begin. A trail lasting five days in the state Senate will cost around $41,000.

It's a total of $66,900 to remove a state official from office.

"If he would resign tomorrow, our mission would be moot," Duncan said.

Although McMahan is not handling day-to-day operations of his office, his attorney said McMahan is also not willing to give up his post.

"Right now, Mr. McMahan asserts his innocence and anticipates an acquittal at the trial," Duncan said. If that happens, he wants to continue serving the public as he has been doing."

McMahan's federal criminal trial is scheduled to begin in early June. His attorney is asking the federal judge to dismiss eight of the nine counts in the indictment against him.

That trial will take place in Muskogee.

Related story:

1/18/2008  Federal Grand Jury Indicts Auditor