JACKSONVILLE, Fla. — Update: A previous version of this article incorrectly stated that the two former JEA executives -- CEO Aaron Zahn and CFO Ryan Wannamacher were getting their own trial. Zahn and Wannamacher will be on trial together, but with two separate juries.
A judge ruled on Tuesday that two former JEA executives will be on trial together but with two separate juries. Judge Brian J Davis says they will select the judges separately, likely on different days.
The former CEO, Aaron Zahn, and former CFO, Ryan Wannamacher, are facing charges of fraud and conspiracy, related to the failed sale of the utility.
They are accused of secretly planning to skim profits off the top of that planned sale, which could have paid them millions of dollars.
Both have pleaded not guilty.
Although neither Zahn or Wannamacher attended the preliminary hearing on Wednesday, their attorneys spoke on their behalf.
Several JEA employees, including current CEO Jay Stowe, will take a seat on the witness stand. Other city officials will also speak to their experiences with both former JEA executives throughout the trial next month.
The trial is currently scheduled for February 5th.