MANCHESTER, Conn. — A judge won't allow a former investigator for Connecticut's public defender's office who's accused of intimidating a witness to enter a special program that could have resulted in his charges being erased.

The Journal Inquirer reports Superior Court Judge Stuart Rosen said denied 82-year-old Donald Light's request Wednesday. The judge said he believes the charges against Light are too serious.

Prosecutors say Light made comments that made a witness feel afraid for her safety. The woman said she felt Light was trying to scare her away from testifying.

Light's lawyer said he never threatened the witness.

His lawyer said the special program would be perfect for Light, who has no criminal history.

The program is designed for first-time offenders and can lead to a defendant's charges being erased after a probationary period.

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Information from: Journal Inquirer, http://www.journalinquirer.com