Ex-reserve deputy convicted in fatal shooting denied bail

TULSA, Okla. (AP) – A former volunteer sheriff’s deputy in Oklahoma convicted last week of fatally shooting an unarmed man has been denied bail while he awaits sentencing.

Former Tulsa County Sheriff’s reserve deputy Robert Bates was denied bail during a hearing Tuesday.

Bates has been jailed since Wednesday when he was convicted of second-degree manslaughter in the shooting death of Eric Harris during a gun-sale sting last year.

Jurors recommended Bates serve four years in prison and the 74-year-old insurance executive is to be sentenced May 31.

Bates cited medical issues as a reason for release, but the judge said state law prohibits bail on appeal for those convicted of a felony while possessing a firearm.

Harris’ killing prompted a grand jury investigation that led to the resignation of then-Sheriff Stanley Glanz.