Copyright 2003, Roadracing World Publishing, Inc.

Congressman William J. Janklow’s trial on felony manslaughter charges started today in Flandreau, South Dakota.

The charges stem from an August 16 incident in which Janklow, 64, ran a stop sign and collided with motorcyclist Randy Scott, 55, a volunteer firefighter and farmer from Minnesota who was fatally injured.

Janklow served four years as Attorney General and four terms as governor of South Dakota before running for Congress.

Janklow faces up to 10 years in prison if convicted of manslaughter and could also face disciplinary action from the House of Representatives’ Ethics committee if convicted of a crime which carries two or more years in jail. Janklow is also facing charges of reckless driving, speeding and running a stop sign.

According to news reports, 21 potential jurors were excused by mid-morning Monday due to existing relationships with Janklow and/or his lawyer, Ed Evans. Several potential jurors were also excused after stating that they had already formed an opinion on Janklow’s guilt or innocence.