Crime

Harvey Updyke (UPDATE): Will any lawyer defend alleged Auburn Univ. tree killer?

By Barry Leibowitz

February 23, 2011 / 9:26 AM EST / CBS News

An undated photo provided by the Auburn Public Safety Department shows Harvey Almorn Updyke Jr., 62, of Dadeville. Updyke Jr. was arrested early Thursday morning, Feb. 17, 2011 and charged with one count of first-degree criminal mischief in connection with the poisoning of the historic Toomer's Corner oak trees at Auburn University. (AP Photo/Auburn Public Safety Department) — Harvey Updyke AP Photo/Auburn Public Safety Department

(CBS/AP) AUBURN, Ala. - Seems like defending one Harvey Updyke Jr., the man charged with poisoning two beloved oak trees at Auburn University, is one job no one wants to put on the resume.

In a matter of days, three court appointed attorneys for Updyke have withdrawn from the case.

On Tuesday, Montgomery's Jerry Blevins filed a motion to Lee County Circuit Court citing an "irreconcilable conflict" between himself and the defendant.

Toomer's Corner, site of poisoned oak trees at Auburn University WRBL

Blevins had replaced Jerry Hauser; he filed a motion to withdraw from the case because of a potential conflict of interest. Hauser's wife, Margaret Fitch-Hauser, is head of Auburn's department of communication and journalism.

Last Friday, the court appointed Hauser after the first defense attorney on the case, Philip Tyler, withdrew. Tyler, who was also appointed by the judge, also cited conflicts - including his former job as an assistant professor at the university.

Who will step forward and defend Harvey Updyke Jr. in the Auburn oak poisoning case?

Show of hands, 'Bama fans?

COMPLETE COVERAGE OF THE AUBURN UNIV. TREE POISONING CASE ON CRIMESIDER