MILWAUKEE (WTAQ) - A judge refused to drop embezzlement charges against a former aide to Governor Scott Walker when he was the Milwaukee County executive.

Tim Russell’s attorney said the case should be dropped due to an issue with a previous attorney – but the request was denied.

Prosecutor Bruce Landgraf said Friday was Russell’s final chance to accept a plea deal from his office. That didn’t materialize, so Russell’s December 3rd trial date was re-affirmed.

Russell is accused of taking $21,000 from an annual Milwaukee County event which honors veterans. He also allegedly took contributions from two county supervisor candidates he was managing.

Russell was a former deputy chief of staff to Walker. He’s among 5 ex-Walker aides charged as part of a John Doe investigation that’s continuing. Two of those defendants were convicted after striking plea deals – but they still await sentencing.