Judge denies motion to dismiss Waller's state charges

A judge has denied a request by Clay Waller's lawyer to dismiss state harassment and stealing charges against him.

Scott Reynolds, Waller's lawyer in the state case, submitted a motion last month to dismiss the case on the grounds that Waller, who is in prison on federal charges, can't get a speedy trial.

Judge Scott Thomsen denied the request last week.

Waller's trial can't proceed in state court until he finishes his prison term. He was sentenced to five years in January after pleading guilty to charges of making an Internet threat against his sister-in-law, Cheryl Brenneke. Brenneke is the guardian of Waller's three children. His wife Jacque has been missing since June, and prosecutors have said in court they suspect Clay Waller murdered her. Waller has repeatedly denied involvement in her disappearance.

Waller was charged with theft and harassment in July. The state alleges he stole $55,000 from Delta Cos. in April 2010 by not performing work. He's also accused of making a threatening phone call to a former friend.

Waller is serving his federal sentence at a prison in Oakdale, La.

Pertinent address:

Oakdale, La.