Estherville, IA (KICD)– An Emmet County judge has granted a request made by three former Armstrong officials for separate trials and a change of venue.

Former Mayor Gregg Buum, City Clerk Connie Thackery and Police Chief Craig Merril were all accused of various offenses in February 2021 following a long-term investigation by the State of Iowa.

Legal teams representing the trio asked for separate trials and to have proceedings moved out of Emmet County in December with both requests being approved by Judge Jeffrey Neary last week.

In his ruling, Judge Neary noted that taking the three defendants to trial at the same time would increase the complexity of the case citing the different roles each had in the community.

Judge Neary went on to say that the trials should be moved to another location because of extensive media coverage of the accusations and because relationships the defendants have with potential jurors would not allow for a fair trial.