GREENVILLE, S.C. - Jurors heard two tales of Earle Morris on Tuesday in the opening day of the former politician's trial on fraud charges.

Morris, 76, is the former chairman of Carolina Investors, whose bankruptcy cost about 12,000 South Carolina investors $278 million. It was the largest bankruptcy ever in South Carolina.

The jury of six men and six women heard prosecutors describe the former comptroller general and lieutenant governor as a liar who withheld the truth about Carolina Investors' financial troubles from investors.

The defense emphasized Morris' long history of service both politically and as an advocate for the disabled and underprivileged. His attorneys said he, too, was a victim in the company's collapse.

This case "is not about what others said. Not today," said Assistant Attorney General Sherri Lydon. "Today is about what Earle Morris said and did."

Larry Owen, former president of Carolina Investors, pleaded guilty in July to fraud charges that mirror those Morris faces. Owen will testify against Morris, Lydon told the jury.

Although the attorney general's office has said no deal was made for Owen's plea, the former executive's sentencing is being delayed until other criminal cases are resolved.

Morris' attorney Joel Collins told the jury about Morris' service and the highways, buildings and treatment centers dedicated in his name.

Collins said Morris thought Carolina was sound because he trusted the expert advice of auditors, attorneys and respected businessmen leading Carolina Investors' parent company, HomeGold.

"He really feels like he was used," Collins said.

Morris showed little emotion during opening statements, though his wife, Carol Morris, entered the courtroom in tears. Several other members of the Morris family were in the courtroom.

Many of the people who lost money when Carolina Investors went under are retirees who suddenly saw their nest egg disappear. They will recoup about 18 cents on the dollar under a settlement approved by a federal judge last month.

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Information from: Anderson Independent-Mail, http://www.andersonsc.com/