RALEIGH -- A prominent defense attorney whose efforts helped lead to the exonerations of Duke University lacrosse players falsely accused of rape -- is now representing former North Carolina Gov. Mike Easley, whose activities and those of his associates have been part of state and federal investigations.
An assistant for Raleigh lawyer Joe Cheshire confirmed Wednesday that Easley is now Cheshire's client. A message left for Cheshire wasn't immediately returned.
The Duke lacrosse case put Cheshire in the national spotlight for months.
The U.S. Attorney's Office has been seeking information about private air travel taken by Easley and coastal developments, including one where he and his wife bought a lot.
Easley hasn't been charged with any crimes. A local prosecutor is examining whether charges should be filed based on evidence uncovered in a State Board of Elections hearing involving Easley's campaign committee.
