Attorney General Jim Hood has written letters to three district attorneys, offering to assist if they launch a state investigation into judicial bribery allegations that are already part of a high-profile federal inquiry.

However, the federal trial of plaintiffs lawyer Dickie Scruggs, his son, Zach, and an associate begins March 31, and state charges are unlikely at this time.The Scruggses and law partner Sidney Backstrom have pleaded not guilty.

In the letters, dated Feb. 25, Hood said “the full resources of my office will be available to you should you choose to pursue state charges.”

The letters are significant because Hood has already said publicly that his office will not lead an investigation into the allegations, citing his close relationship with those involved.

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