Renzi Co-Defendant Makes Initial Court Appearance

1 Dec 2008 // TUCSON, Ariz. (AP) - The newest co-defendant in the conspiracy, fraud and racketeering case against retiring Arizona Congressman Rick Renzi has made an initial court appearance.

Dwayne Lequire, an accountant and a director of Renzi's insurance company, was freed on his own recognizance Tuesday.

Lequire faces charges of conspiracy to commit insurance fraud and insurance fraud. He and two other Renzi co-defendants are named in a new indictment issued Nov. 13.

U.S. Magistrate Bernardo Velasco set his arraignment for Dec. 11.

Lequire declined comment. His attorney, Alfred "Skip" Donau, said they look forward to having the matter heard soon.

Renzi also is charged with making a false statement on a tax return, wire fraud, money laundering, insurance fraud and extortion. He maintains his innocence.