Alabama chief deputy arrested on theft charges

A state appeals court is refusing to overturn the convictions of eight inmates on Alabama's death row.

ARROLLTON, Ala. (AP) — Authorities have arrested a west Alabama chief deputy who worked for a sheriff who pleaded guilty to federal crimes earlier this year.

News outlets report that state police say Pickens County Chief Deputy Jonathan Gann was arrested Tuesday on theft and evidence-tampering charges.

The Tuscaloosa News reports Gann was charged after an investigation requested by a prosecutor and Pickens County's newly appointed sheriff, Todd Hall.

Officials plan to hold a news conference Wednesday to discuss specifics.

Gann was No. 2 in command under longtime Pickens County Sheriff David Abston. Abston pleaded guilty last month in a scheme involving food purchased for the jail kitchen.

It's unclear whether the charges against Gann are related to Abston's case.

Court records aren't yet available to show whether Gann has a lawyer.

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