State Rep. Thomas Wright

The Wilmington Democrat is scheduled to make an appearance for a pretrial motions hearing. His trial on fraud and obstruction of justice charges is scheduled to begin next week in Wake County Superior Court.

Wright was indicted in December on six felony charges for his handling of more than $350,000 in campaign donations, loans and charitable money. Wright could face up to 11 years in prison if convicted on all charges.

House lawmakers have also charged Wright with ethical misconduct, and they may censure or remove Wright from his legislative seat.

Wright's attorney, Douglas Harris, has blamed many of Wright's troubles on sloppy bookkeeping. Harris has said he expects a jury will find Wright innocent.

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