State appeals court judge resigns

OKLAHOMA CITY (AP) -- An Oklahoma Court of Criminal Appeals judge who is under investigation over travel and purchase claims has quit.<br/><br/>In a resignation letter to Governor Brad Henry, Stephen Lile

Tuesday, March 1st 2005, 6:19 am

By: News On 6

OKLAHOMA CITY (AP) -- An Oklahoma Court of Criminal Appeals judge who is under investigation over travel and purchase claims has quit.

In a resignation letter to Governor Brad Henry, Stephen Lile wrote he was honored to be a judge on the court but his respect for his position compels him to step down effective March 1st.

Yesterday's resignation comes less than a week after a state audit criticized about $3,000 in questionable travel and office purchase claims. Lile reimbursed the state for the travel and office expenditures.

The judge declined comment.

Henry says Lile did the right thing and that he'll move quickly to appoint a replacement. Henry will make the appointment from a list of three candidates nominated by the Oklahoma Nominating Commission.

Attorney General Drew Edmondson has been investigating the judge's activities and says he's pleased that Lile has accepted responsibility for his actions and resigned.

Edmondson says the resignation concludes an examination of the judge's activities, although elements of his office's work involving other personnel continues.