Judge denies motion for recusal in McVeigh appeal

(Denver-AP) -- A federal judge has denied a motion filed on behalf of convicted Oklahoma City bomber Timothy McVeigh requesting that the judge disqualify himself from the case. <br><br>U-S District Judge

Tuesday, March 14th 2000, 12:00 am

By: News On 6

(Denver-AP) -- A federal judge has denied a motion filed on behalf of convicted Oklahoma City bomber Timothy McVeigh requesting that the judge disqualify himself from the case.

U-S District Judge Richard Matsch ruled today that he will be able to remain partial in McVeigh's bid for a new trial. Matsch presided over the original case.

McVeigh has asked the court to overturn his conviction for the 1995 bombing at the Alfred P. Murrah Federal Building claiming his lawyer leaked inflammatory stories about him to the media.

McVeigh now has a new attorney. In an affidavit, the attorney asserts that statements made in court opinions and during hearings showed --quote-- "a clear predisposition" regarding any claim of ineffective assistance of trial counsel.

But Matsch ruled that the affidavit is insufficient to warrant his disqualification from the case.