OKLAHOMA CITY (AP) -- An Oklahoma senator is representing over a dozen pharmaceutical companies that the state is suing for alleged fraudulent marketing prices -- prompting questions over a potential conflict of interest.
The Oklahoman reports that Oklahoma Senate Minority Leader John Sparks and two former Oklahoma City U.S. attorneys have filed a motion on behalf of the companies.
Attorney Mike Burrage is assisting the state in the lawsuit. He says he thinks the Norman Democrat would have to look out for the state's interests before "personal interests."
Sparks' law partner, Ben Odom, says he doesn't think Sparks has a conflict of interest and that it's common for lawmakers to represent criminal defendants in cases the state files against them. He says this lawsuit is similar.
Sparks didn't immediately respond Friday to a telephone message left by the Associated Press seeking comment.
Stay in touch with us anytime, anywhere.
Download our free app for Apple and Android and Kindle devices.
Sign up for newsletters emailed to your inbox. Select from these options: Breaking News, Severe Weather, School Closings, Daily Headlines and Daily Forecasts.
