W.Va. prosecutor to refute claims sheriff raped man charged with his murder

Mingo County authorities are fighting allegations that former Sheriff Eugene Crum raped the man who's been charged with killing him.

Tennis Melvin Maynard is accused of shooting Crum on April 3 as the sheriff ate lunch in his parked vehicle in downtown Williamson. Maynard's father told media outlets following a court hearing this week that Crum had raped his son, providing a possible motive for the shooting. Maynard's brother said attempts to report sexual abuse were ignored by authorities.

Attempts to reach Maynard's family for comment were unsuccessful.

Prosecutor Michael Sparks says his office investigated and will dispute both claims at court, if they are brought up.

Maynard has pleaded not guilty to all charges. Jury selection in the trial is scheduled to begin Dec. 9.