By AP
Memphis, TN – State senator Kathryn Bowers, former senator John Ford and Barry Myers appeared in federal court Wednesday morning to enter pleas in the public corruption case called "Tennessee Waltz".
Ford, who resigned his seat two days after being indicted last month, pleaded innocent and left the courthouse calling federal investigators "liars".
Ford claims he and six others were caught up in the sting because of corrupt investigators who he claims "lied about everything".
Bowers also pleaded innocent and left the court building saying there were at least two people with her...her "attorney and the Lord".
Bowers and Ford will be tried separately.
Trial dates of July 5th were set but defense attorneys says it will take at least 90 days to prepare for a trial.,
Myers, who the indictment describes as the "bagman" for two lawmakers accused of bribery, arrived at the courthouse saying he was "strong and praying".
Also charged are former senator Roscoe Dixon, senator Ward Crutchfield, representative Chris Newton and Chatta nooga lobbyist Charles Love. Their arraignments are set for next week