Tucker Claims Juror Bias, Seeks New Trial

LITTLE ROCK, Ark. — Gov. Jim Guy Tucker asked for a new trial after learning a Whitewater juror married a man during the trial who had been denied clemency on a cocaine sentence by the governor.

“It is stunning, and it shocks the conscience,” Tucker said.

Tucker’s lawyers filed a motion Friday asking that his May 28 conviction on two felony counts be overturned and a new trial ordered.

County records show juror Renee Aleta Johnson and Charles Hayes were married March 14, 10 days after jury selection began in the Whitewater trial. Tucker denied Hayes clemency on a 40-year cocaine sentence in 1992.

Tucker’s lawyer, Darrell Brown, said the defense had not been aware of the marriage and accused Johnson of being prejudiced against Tucker. Neither Johnson nor Hayes could be reached by telephone.

Tucker, who faces up to 10 years in prison at sentencing scheduled for Aug. 19, will still resign as planned on Monday.

Tucker and James B. and Susan McDougal were convicted on fraud and conspiracy charges after a 13-week trial in which they were accused of scheming in the mid-1980s to make illegal loans.

Sandra Wood, the jury forewoman, said Johnson never gave any indication during deliberations that she had an agenda.