Court proceedings resumed Wednesday morning in the trial of former Covington County Probate Judge Sherrie Phillips, who could face six felony ethics and theft charges in the estate of Castleberry resident Cary Douglas Piper if convicted.

Phillips took the stand at approximately 11 a.m. Wednesday to defend herself against claims that she used money from the estate to make various purchases in businesses around town, pay off personal loans and complete various home improvements.

Check Thursday’s edition of the Star-News for a full update of Wednesday’s courtroom proceedings.