TULSA, Okla. (AP) - A state appellate court has been asked to remove a special prosecutor in the case of a Tulsa County district judge accused of indecent exposure.

Lawyers for Judge Jesse Harris asked the state Court of Criminal Appeals yesterday to order an Osage County judge to disqualify Washington County District Attorney Rick Esser and his staff.

Court papers say the appeals court should allow oral arguments addressing issues of misconduct that affect not only Harris' rights but also the appearance of fairness in the state's criminal processes.

Defense attorneys claim Esser's office engaged in an abuse of power in an attempt to force Harris from the bench.

Harris is accused of exposing himself to two women in March. Harris filed a civil lawsuit against the two women last month.