Lawyers For A Convicted Judge Head Back To Court

An attorney for a former Creek County judge convicted of indecent exposure say they want him released from prison now. Donald Thompson's lawyer says he will ask for Thompson's release during a

Thursday, May 17th 2007, 6:11 am

By: News On 6

An attorney for a former Creek County judge convicted of indecent exposure say they want him released from prison now. Donald Thompson's lawyer says he will ask for Thompson's release during a special court hearing Friday. Thompson's lawyer, Clark Brewster say the former judge has been punished more severely than other first-time offenders. Brewster says Thompson is locked down in his cell for all but one hour of the day and Brewster believes the punishment is too extreme.

Thompson was convicted in June 2006 on four counts of indecent exposure for using a sexual device while presiding over trials. Thompson was sentenced to four consecutive one-year terms. He has completed the first year and is now serving his second.

Richard Smothermon led the prosecution against Thompson and he says the former judge received a tougher sentence because he refused to take a plea deal, and because of his high position. Smothermon also says Thompson knew the risk of committing a crime while he was a sitting judge, and Smothermon does not think people should feel sorry for him.

In addition to prison time, and a $40,000 fine, the state of Oklahoma took away Thompson's $93,000 a year pension. Thompson is appealing that decision.