Trial Set for Leith Mayor on Fire Charge

CARSON, N.D. (AP) — Leith Mayor Ryan Schock is to stand trial June 16 on a misdemeanor charge of failing to control or report a dangerous fire.

Schock has pleaded not guilty to the charge that carries a maximum punishment of a year in jail and a $2,000 fine. The case will be heard by a six-person jury in South Central District Court in Carson.

The charge against Schock stems from city officials' efforts last year to clean up dilapidated buildings after their dispute with white supremacist Craig Cobb, who tried unsuccessfully to take over Leith. Schock denies doing anything wrong.