Blagojevich guilty on 17 of 20 counts
The jury found Blagojevich guilty on 17 counts.
They could not reach a verdict on Count 11 - Attempted Extortion -- Solicitation of U.S. congressman and Count 16 - Attempted Extortion - Solicitation of construction executive.
Blagojevich was found not guilty on Count 17 - Bribery - Solicitation of construction executive.
Blagojevich enters courtroom
Rod en route to courthouse
A sizable crowd of people have gathered outside the courthouse watching the activity at the Dirksen Federal Building.
Media tries to keep busy while waiting
Outside the 2nd floor cafeteria where "Camp Blagojevich" is set up, members of the media have found several ways to keep busy.
Some work on their computers without barely uttering a word, others read or play scrabble. There have also been arts and crafts and the occasional cat nap and of course, a lot of speculation as to what the jurors are doing. Everyone prepared to kick into gear at a moments notice.
The jury in the first trial took 14 days to deliberate only to find themselves hung on nearly every count.
Jury goes home, no verdict
The jury has deliberated for six days without reaching a verdict.
Jury goes home
Today they sent a note asking for clarification of the jury instructions pertaining to wire fraud.
Deliberations will resume Monday morning.
Blagojevich comments
Case goes to the jury
Judge Zagel finished reading the jurors instructions.
Jurors will begin deliberations first thing Friday morning.
Defense to jury: Fund raising not the issue
- Aaron Goldstein, Rod Blagojevich's attorney
'Mr Immunity '
The Blagojevich defense has referred to lobbyist and one time friend of the ex gov, John Wyma as "Mr. Immunity."
Aaron Goldstein says Wyma only became interested in cooperating with the government after he received a subpoena on another matter.
Another witness Gerry Krozel initially told the feds he felt no pressure to donate campaign funds. Goldstein says Krozel changed his mind after agents showed up at his door and he felt "terrified."
Court adjourns for the day
The prosecutions closing argument in felt a bit like an introductory to law class.
The jurors in the former governor's first trial complained that the counts and instructions were confusing and took them several days to sort out.
In an attempt to avoid a repeat of the first jury verdict prosecutor Carrie Hamilton walked the jurors thru the indictment count by count explaining the alleged schemes and how the law was broken.
Prosecution calls defense 'ludicrous'
The closing argument, which has been underway for an hour, appears to have been simplified the second time around. The prosecution has used the example of a police officer who offers a bribe for not issuing a speeding ticket, but the driver doesn't pay.
On a large screen in the courtroom prosecutors displayed the law for the jurors.
Prosecutor to jury: You have one question to answer
She also told jurors they only have to ask one question. "Did the defendant try to get a benefit for himself in exchange for official act?"
Closing arguments to begin
Final rebuttal witness takes stand
Closing arguments may begin tomorrow
Judge warns: No Touching
Shortly after Judge Zagel explained to the jury that the prosecutors are not allowed to have contact with the witnesses.
Blago gets breather in re-direct
This morning prosecutors saving what might be their best for last, finished with their cross examination asking Blagojevich if he was considering taking a bribe in exchange for appointing Jesse Jackson Jr. to the senate seat.
Blagojevich denied it saying it would be "illegal."
Patti Blagojevich is absent from court this afternoon. The former first lady of Illinois has been in court nearly every moment.
Prosecution turns focus to racetrack shakedown
Prosecutors have left the senate seat topic and have moved on to the school grants and the alleged racetrack shakedown.
There have been less fireworks today between Rod Blagojevich and prosecutor Reid Schar, but the prosecution is still working to paint Blagojevich as a liar.
Under direct testimony Blagojevich had stated he wanted to personally review a racetrack bill for "poison pill" language before signing. Today, under cross Blagojevich admitted that he may not have planned to read the bill himself.
When Schar asked "Were you going to personally review the bill or not?" Blagojevich answered, "I guess we'll never know because you didn't let me do it," referring to his December 2008 arrest.
Blagojevich apologies
Blagojevich apologized for his foul language and to the taxpayers, for having his chief of staff look up possible job opportunities he could get for the senate seat. He also apologized to Carol Marine for some unpleasant comments he said about her. In one wire tap he even makes fun of the Russians. During his testimony Blagojevich said "Now I owe the Russians an apology. I don't know how I'm gonna do that."
Defense attorney Aaron Goldstein then asked Blagojevich about the infamous "bleeping golden" statement. Blagojevich explained it by saying he saw it as a "unique opportunity" but didn't quite know what he was going to do with it. He had stated earlier he wanted something that would be good for Illinois.
Blago fires back against Jackson testimony
Blago said he thought Jesse Jackson Junior had potential to become what Barack Obama became, but "we're all complicated," he said.
As for the Elvis-like snapping and a request for $25,000 (a reference to Jackson's testimony yesterday)--Blago said: "I don't remember one thing remotely like that."
Side bar continues
Defense plans to make a case
Sheldon Sorosky told the judge they expect the defense case to last three days and said they may call a "number of prominent witnesses.".
Sign posted in Dirksen says 'Free Rod'
An impossible to miss posting inside the 2nd floor mens room at the Dirksen Federal Building.
Racetrack president takes stand
John Johnston says he felt "uncomfortable" and "agitated" after a December 2008 conversation with then lobbyist Lon Monk.
In that conversation Johnston says Monk relayed to him the Governor was concerned Johnston wouldn't be "forthcoming" with a campaign contribution if he signed a racetrack bill Johnston had a vested interest in beforehand. Johnston said Monk stated "I really need you to get a contribution in before the end of the year." Johnston is one of the final witnesses for the prosecution in this retrial.
The case could go the defense as early as next week.
Judge issues stern warning to defense
Judge James Zagel told Sorosky "These question's hint at facts that haven't been proven." Zagel went on to say he doesn't want to "embarrass" any attorney but he will end the examination if needed outside the presence of the jury.
Blago's former chief of staff takes stand
Monk who has a plea agreement for soliciting a bribe has admitted to taking $10,000 dollars in cash from business man and one time Blagojevich fundraiser Tony Rezko. The cash was for Monk to purchase a car in 2004.
Monk says he didn't tell Blagojevich saying he wouldn't have approved and would fear it would invite an investigation. Monk also told a similar story given by witness John Wyma stating that Blagojevich was holding back part of a road construction plan in an effort to raise campaign funds in exchange for the work.
The Governor allegedly said "If they don't step it up by the end of the year then f'em."
Profanity expert on the stand?
Last week Wyma stated that the former Governor was holding back on the 2nd stage of a 3 phase construction project until he got a half of million dollars from a construction company CEO Gerry Krozel. Wyma said Blagojevich told him "If they don't perform, f'em."
Today under cross examination, defense attorney Sheldon Sorosky repeatedly asked Wyma his interpretation of "f'em" and what he understood it to mean.
Sorosky's line of questioning prompted the judge to remind him the witness is not an expert in the area of profanity sparking laughter in the courtroom.
Childrens Memorial CEO on stand
In a scaled down version Magoon has told the court that on October 22nd, just five days after getting a rate increase for pediatric doctors approved by the governor, Robert Blagojevich called and asked him to raise $25,000 dollars.
Magoon said he had no intention of fundraising for the Governor but avoided Robert's phone calls because he felt the two were "linked" and believed the rate increase which was to take effect January 2009 would not go thru.
Recordings detail Blago's options for senate choice
On the recording the former Governor tells Deputy Governor Bob Greenlee and consultant Fred Yang that he is now considering Jesse Jackson Jr for the Senate Seat because he wants the seat and is offering something "tangible."
In earlier recordings Blagojevich made it clear his dislike for Jackson and said the thought of appointing him is "repugnant."
Blago tapes just keep coming
They've been playing one wire tap after another where Blagojevich can be heard discussing his options on how to land a cabinet position or become a head of an organization that would or could potentially be funded by wealthy contributors such as Warren Buffet - all in exchange for the U.S. Senate seat.
In one recording Blagojevich appears irritated that Obama's people are only offering "thanks and appreciation" if he appoints Valerie Jarrett to the Senate and complains about being left behind by Obama saying, "You get a president who is selfish and just ditches people, so you get nothing."
Harris describes Blagojevich as 'tense'
Harris describes how he just went along with the governor trying to avoid an argument because he feared they wouldn't speak for days and there was work to be done.
Patti knits, Rod takes notes
She is knitting nonstop as tapes play of conversations she and others had with her husband during 2008.
Rod is feverishly taking notes as tapes play aloud for the jury.
This is a big change from the first trial where he sat, smiled and rarely picked up a pen.
Blago's former chief of staff takes stand
Harris said he took it to mean Valerie Jarrett.
Prosecutors then played a tape where Rod asks Harris what he thinks he can get in exchange for appointing Valerie Jarrett.
Court adjourns for the day
The first witness will be called tomorrow 9 a.m.
Defense makes opening statements
Goldstein also told jurors that several witnesses will either have a plea deal or immunity with the government when they testify.
Prosecutors cite 5 crimes in opening statements
Niewoenher went through each alleged crime explaining exactly where the crime occurred. This was in contrast to last years openings which began with Children's Memorial alleged shakedown but also included several other topics not mentioned today.
In closing, Niewoehner told jurors that at the end of this case "each and everyone of you will know that the defendant betrayed the people of Illinois"
Jury sworn in
Openings will begin immediately after.
Prosecutors will not prosecute Robert Blagojevich
Prosecutor Reid Schar says in the interest of justice they do not intend to retry Robert Blagojevich.
However, the will retry the former Governor, Rod Blagojevich.
Judge Zagel has told attorney's in the Rod Blagojevich case that the "earliest feasible trial date" will be the first week of January.
VIDEO: Latest from Trial of Rod Blagojevich
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Media looking for jury
BREAKING: Verdict in Blagojevich Trial
The jury has arrived at a verdict in the trial of former
Governor Rod Blagojevich.
Rod Blagojevich was found guilty of Count 24: False statement to the FBI
The jury was hung on all other of the 23 counts including the counts against
Robert Blagojevich
Prosecutors say it is their every intention to retry Rod Blagojevich and are seeking a trial
Tell us: What do you think?
The jury in the trial of former Illinois Governor Rod Blagojevich has reached a verdict.
What are your thoughts on this trial? Share them on our message board here.
Tension in the courtroom
Blagojevich enters courthouse
Sources: Lawyers called and asked to bring in clients
Jurors want copy of oath....
Jurors have sent a note to the judge asking the court to provide a copy of the oath they took when sent to deliberate.
In a second question the jury asked the judge how to fill out the jury form when they can't reach a consensus on a particular count.
Jury has another question for judge...
Judge Zagel has called in the attorneys for a hearing on a question from the jurors.
The jury has requested a copy of former Deputy Gov. Bradley Tusk's testimony.
Judge has granted their request
Jury done until Monday
Blago participates in 80's trivia game at courthouse cafe
Rod Blagojevich is spending the afternoon in the courthouse cafeteria answering questions to an 80's trivia game with questions being read by a TV news producer.
Blagojevich is waiting to see how the jury will respond to the judge's note that they work thru the wire fraud counts.
When one of his attorneys answered a trivia question correctly, Blagojevich joked, "Its always gratifying to see your lawyers get things right!"
Heat advisory for the reporter pen
As we sit and wait for something to happen, legal analyst Terry Sullivan sheds a layer and makes himself right at home here.
Jurors and attorneys take lunch break...
Jurors have taken a lunch break and attorneys for both sides have left the building.
Rod Blagojevich has decided to dine in at the courthouse cafe, presumably sticking around to hear if the jurors respond to the judge's last note asking them to decide one way or the other on the wire fraud counts.
Jury comes to agreement on two counts...
Judge Zagel has received a note from the jury stating they have only come to agreement on two counts.
In addition they told the judge they haven't even considered 11 of the wire fraud counts.
They are deadlocked on remaining counts.
Jury goes home, will return Wednesday morning
This afternoon the jury sent a note to the judge asking for guidance stating they couldn't reach a unanimous verdict on at least some of the counts.
The judge sent a note back asking for clarification.
Attorney's are to report back tomorrow at 11am.
Jury says the cannot reach unanimous decision
Judge calls defendants back for jury question
Day 11 of Deliberation: Jury Questions
Jurors in 10th day of deliberations in Blagojevich trail
Jurors are in their 10th day of deliberations in the trial of Rod Blagojevich and defense attorneys say anxiety is beginning to set in.
Sam Adam Sr. spoke briefly to reporters this morning at the federal courthouse.
Adam said he lives with constant butterflies in his belly and he can't sleep at night. His son, Sam Adam Jr. says emotionally he is all over the board--wondering if the jury is hung, if they are stuck on a few counts or stuck on many.
Michael Ettinger, attorney for Robert Blagojevich, told the press he thinks the jury is going to be out for awhile.
As for the defendants themselves, their lawyers say they are just trying to stay busy.
Rod talks to Sam Adam Sr. frequently throughout the day.
Adam says the Blago is trying to protect his family from the fallout of the verdict.
His 7-year old-daughter, Annie, "is scared she's going to lose her Daddy," said Adam. He went on to say, "Rod and Patti's biggest problem: not letting this get to their children."
As for looking ahead, lawyers for Blago say they have in the past and continue to refuse to prepare for the worst.
They all operate, as they have from the beginning, under the theory that Rod Blago is not a criminal.
Is that you, Rod?
Jerry Kroll, an actor/lawyer from Santa Barbara, Calif., did his best to impress the media as the "real" Rod Blagojevich at the Dirksen Federal Building today. Day 9 of jury deliberations are underway
Day 9 of jury deliberations are underway.
Lawyers in the trial of Rod Blajojevich gathered outside Judge James Zagel's courtroom only to be told there is no news to report and that the jury was back cracking away at the 24 count indictment against the ex-Governor.
The last time the 12 member panel communicated with lawyers and the judge about the substance of the case was July 30th.
All requests made to the judge were denied.
For one week straight, they have worked silently behind closed doors.
Day 8 Jury Deliberations: No Verdict
Jury plans to break early tomorrow...
Jurors in the trial of Rod Blagojevich plan to break early tomorrow suggesting they are not quite ready to deliver a verdict.
Judge Zagels courtroom staff were notified by the jury they plan to break at 12:30 p.m. on Friday.
Day 7 of deliberations...the jury is back at work
The defense told WGN-TV that the pot of campaign money the judge has approved to cover legal fees for Blagojevich's defense has likely run out.
Lawyers are being paid public defender rates of $110/hour.
At last check, there was about $78,000 left in the court approved kitty.
But the team of lawyers representing the ex-governor have yet to submit their July bills.
They tell WGN that the total will exceed what is left.
The US Government will likely have to pick up the rest.
At stake for Blagojevich: Almost a half million dollars cited in indictment
A brief meeting before the judge wrapped up almost as soon as it began.
Lawyers discussed jury instructions for the forfeiture hearing that takes place if the governor or his brother are convicted on certain counts like racketeering or wire fraud.
At stake for Rod Blagojevich: Almost a half million dollars cited in the indictment.
Today, prosecutors also said they could go after the $2 million that was left in Rod Blagojevich's campaign account at the time he was arrested.
Before trial, the judge in this case approved that money to be used to pay for the ex-governor's legal defense.
As far as how much will be sought in the event of a guilty verdict, prosecutors have yet to make that public. It will be made clear during the actual forfeiture hearing expected to take place directly following the reading of the verdict.
The forfeiture hearing will be brief and will require additional financial evidence being brought to the jury so they can make a decision about seizing ill gotten gains.
Day 4: Blagojevich Deliberations Continue
The jury got right back to work this morning. So far they have sent no questions or notes to the judge. The panel of six men and six women is sifting through 24 corruption counts against Blagojevich and four against his brother, Tennessee businessman Robert Blagojevich.
READ FULL STORY ON WGNTV.COM
One jury expert tells WGN that having the jury out longer favors neither the defense nor the prosecution -- it's merely clear that jurors are taking their work seriously, and perhaps personalities are either meshing or clashing.
"A lot of times juries trade off," says Allen Tuerkheimer of the firm Zagnoli, McEvoy, Foley. "So if there's some that are leaning in a pro-defense way and some that are leaning prosecution, then they might convict on some and acquit on others. It's sort of a compromise verdict."
Way outside the jury room, bettors and bookies are weighing in on the verdict, and the odds seem to be against Blagojevich. One website puts the former Governor's odds against an acquittal at 100 to 1.
Judge asks jury for a narrowed request of specific transcripts
Jurors have sent a note to the judge in the trial of Rod Blagojevich asking for trial transcripts.
At the objection of defense attorneys the judge has proposed that he send a note back to the jury asking for a narrowed request for specific transcripts.
He also plans to tell them it will take some time.
Also this morning the judge denied a defense motion for mistrial.
Nancy Loo: Battle for Tripod space at the Blagojevich Trial
Inside, the media can only operate from within "The Pen", an area marked by retractable belt barriers. It's probably about 30 x 20 feet - not a lot of space for dozens of camera crews and journalists.
Just about every morning, crew guys and gals will start lining up outside the Dirksen Federal Court building. On big days, some are in place by 3 a.m. After two months of covering the corruption trial, most have fallen into a pretty routine drill.
The unofficial system means placing a tripod in line to reserve your spot for filing in when the courthouse opens at 7 a.m. When it does, it's a mad dash into The Pen to grab the few prime positions. Those are the spaces up front with clear shots when Rod Blagojevich and the lawyers come through security and down the hallway to the elevators. For the stragglers into The Pen, there are ways to still get the shots.
Read more on Nancy Loo's Big Tiny World Blog
Jurors request copies of closing arguments
Jurors in the trial of Rod Blagojevich have sent the judge a note requesting copies of closing arguments.
Judge James Zagel denied the request because it is not evidence.
The waiting game begins...Day 2 of deliberations
The waiting game begins...Day 2 of jury deliberations.
The jury is presumably hard at work and the courtroom is empty.
We are relegated to the "pen" in the lobby. While the reference sounds like something better suited for cows in a corral, I like to think of it more like a "playpen."
Not much fun going on here. We're just waiting for SOMETHING to happen.
Stay tuned...
The Jury and deliberation schedule
- There are 6 women and 6 men
- There are 8 Caucasians
- There are 3 African Americans
- There is 1 Asian
They will decide their deliberating schedule for this phase. It is yet to be announced. They will choose their foreman as well. Patti and Rod Blagojevich are both here. He brought a smile to face the crowds, she brought her knitting. She's making a blue shawl.
The judge says, alternate jurors will be the last five jurors selected in the lot. They will be excused after the entire panel receives instructions. The five will be asked not to talk to the media or have any contact with information connected to the trial.
Zagel said in court today ,regarding a quick verdict, "I'm not anticipating one."
The jury of 12 will go back to the jury room with an indictment, the 136 pages of jury instructions and all the exhibits from the 2 months of trial; that includes all exhibits, including FBI tapes and all transcripts.
On a different matter, Rod Blagojevich's attorney, Sam Adam Jr., turned 38 today. He said he lost 32 pounds because of the trial: long preparation, no lunch for 2 months and stress contributed to a slimmer Sam Adam Jr.
The reading of the jury instructions aloud in court, began at 10:35 a.m.
Patti held back tears as judge talked about being the one who does sentencing.
Sign of a long exhausting trial...
Sign of a long day at the end of an exhausting trial... My colleague, Larry Yellin at Fox News Chicago, came to work with two different shoes on Tuesday.
Sam Adam Jr. finished closing at 1:35 p.m.
Sam's final words to the jury...
"When you go back to the jury room, ask yourselves: what would Sam say?...I beg of you...send that man home."
Sam Adam Jr. resumed closings at 1 p.m.
Theme for the afternoon:"follow the money."
A theme Sam Adam Jr. began with in openings two months ago.
Some quotes:
"$400,000 in 6 years.
For suits. For what? To show you he paid for it out of his own pocket?"
"He (Rod) was advised these things were legal."
Judge Zagel listening to arguments...
Judge Zagel is listening to arguments about Sam's use of the facts in closing.
They are debating it now.
Tapes and quotes from Sam Adam Jr.'s closing arguments
Sam Adam Jr.'s close began at 11 a.m.
He's played three tapes so far aloud for the jury.
Quotes:
"Think about who he intended to extort- the President of the United States. Give me a break!"
Sam jr..
Re: Rod: "Everybody knows he's got a big mouth. "
"There's a big pink elephant in the room." Re: promise for Rod to testify"
"He was just yacking...he's an insecure man. He wasn't trying to extort (the POTUS). You know how you know it? Thank goodness-the tapes."
Blago attorney will present closings and will not push judge on disputed matter
I just spoke with Blagojevich attorney, Sam Adam Jr., and he said he will present closings and will not push the judge on the disputed matter (although he'd like to).
He is doing what's best for the client-all lawyers agree.
He said he will follow the judge's orders.
Court adjourns after tensions arise
Court was abruptly adjourned today after tensions rose between Sam Adam Jr and Judge Zagel with Adam saying he was willing to go to jail for contempt of court if he can't properly defend his client.
Adam argued he should be able to bring up the issue of missing witnesses such as Tony Rezko and Bill Quinlan.
Zagel said he could reformulate his closing and come back tomorrow or designate another lawyer "If you are incapable."
He also added Adam was doing a "disservice" to his client.
Closing arguments will continue tomorrow
Closing arguments will carry over into tomorrow in the trial of Rod Blagojevich.
The judge had hoped to complete them in one day, however, Blagojevich's attorney Sam Adam Jr won't begin until late this afternoon.
Adam had told the court he would take more than 2 hours.
Robert's lawyer begins closing arguments
Michael Ettinger started his closing arguments at 2 p.m. on behalf of Robert Blagojevich
Robert is charged in four counts only. Count 13 against him was dropped this morning.
Ettinger told the jury that, "A leopard doesn't change his spots."
"He came up here," Ettinger said, "for 4 months to repair a fractured relationship."
The two brothers have a "strained" relationship, according to Robert, and have hardly spoken or made eye contact during the weeks long federal trial.
Ettinger is focusing on Robert's long marriage and his military background as the lawyer refutes the charges against the often forgotten co-defendant.
Blagojevich family present in court room following lunch break
The whole Blago family is present following a one-hour lunch break.
Annie, the younger of the two Blagojevich daughters, remains on her mom's lap appearing fidgety at times. Both girls are in plain view of the jury.
Amy will be a freshman in high school this fall. Annie is 7-years-old.
Patti is joined on the fist pew in the gallery by her sister, Deb Mell and her brother.
Noticeably absent: her father, prominent Ald. Dick Mell, who has yet to show up to the trial.
Chris Neiwoehner continues with closing arguments.
Closing arguments likely to run into tomorrow...
It looks awfully ambitious for lawyers to complete their arguments in full by the end of the day.
Assistant U.S. Attorney, Chris Niewoehner, is still going through the counts, one-by-one, before the jury.
He wanted 2 1/2 hours to address the jury and so does Sam Adam Jr., attorney for the ex-governor.
If Robert Blagojevich's lawyer talks for an hour and the jury breaks for lunch shortly...arguments will likely run into tomorrow.
Assistant U.S. Attorney, Reid Schar, also is allowed to deliver a rebuttal expected to last an hour or so.
Blago sits quietly as the prosecution lays out their persuasive arguments
All morning, defendant Rod Blagojevich has been sitting quietly in court appearing as though he could explode over the persuasive arguments the prosecution is laying out before the jury.
Red in the face and clinching his jaw at times, his wife and two daughters sit just feet away.
This as the prosecutor is raking him over the coals accusing him of lying to the FBI, defrauding the public, shaking down public officials and businessmen--all for personal gain.
His wife Patti is not walking away unscathed either: prosecutors are bringing home the point that Blagojevich received payments from Tony Rezko in 2003, through Patti Blagojevich.
A check for $40,000 went in their account the day after they wrote checks totaling $38,000 for home improvements.
Prosecutor: Blagojevich went on a "shopping spree"
In opening statements this morning prosecutor Chris Niewoehner told the jury that Rod Blagojevich went on a "shopping spree" to see what he could get in exchange for the U.S Senate seat.
Prepared that the defense may try to say the governor was all talk, Niewoehner went on the offensive telling jurors "talking is the crime here ladies and gentlemen."
Before proceedings began a wire fraud count was dropped for Robert Blagojevich.
Closing arguments in trial of Blagojevich underway
Dozens of people waited hours for the courthouse doors to open this morning in hopes of getting a firsthand view of closing arguments in the trial of Rod Blagojevich.
By 7:30 a.m., nearly 70 people were lined up outside the courtroom.
Another 100 people filled an overflow room.
The ex- governor just entered. He brought his wife and 2 daughters, yet continues to sign autographs with a smile as he enters the 25th floor.
Closings are scheduled to begin at 9:30 a.m.
Blagojevich: Prosecutors haven't proven their case
Rod Blagojevich spoke to reporters in the lobby of the Dirksen Federal building this afternoon shortly after his defense attorney's rested their case.
When asked why he changed his mind to testify, he told reporters his attorney Sam Adam Sr. convinced him that prosecutors haven't proven their case.
Both sides rests, Blago works the courtroom
Both sides have rested in the trial of Rod Blagojevich, but that didn't stop him from working the room.
At break and seemingly in a good mood, the ex-governor was shaking hands with several courtroom watchers.
Blagojevich was even signing autographs.
The judge in the trial of Rod Blagojevich to return on Monday for closing arguments.
Case will not go to jury today
Case will not go to the jury today.
All sides have rested.
Jury will receive jury instructions in the jury room today, then be back Monday for closing arguments.
Lawyers are tying up loose ends with judge today.
Defense attorney's for Blagojevich rest their case
Defense attorney's for Rod Blagojevich rested their case just moments ago without presenting any witnesses including the Ex-governor.
Rod Blagojevich has maintained his innocence since his arrest in December of 2008 and has claimed all along he would testify.
His brother and co-defendant Robert did take the stand in his own defense.
Robert is off the stand; sidebar follows
Tensions rise in Blagojevich courtroom
Tensions rose in the courtroom today as prosecutor Chris Niewoehner questioned Robert Blagojevich repeatedly about several topics including the Senate seat.
Other times the interactions brought laughter in the courtroom.
Niewoehner asked Blagojevich "if John McCain won (the presidency) your brother wouldn't have an appointment to make, would he?"
Blagojevich replied, "No! I wish that would have happened."
Robert Blagojevich remains on the stand
Rod Blagojevich's brother remains on the stand this morning under cross examination.
Robert Blagojevich appears to be holding up well taking on some tough questions from the prosecution.
Responses to some of the prosecution's accusatory questions included, "that's a leap I will in no way step into; if that's what you're getting at, that didn't happen; I never represented one for the other."
Robert Blagojevich remained defiant on the stand maintaining he committed no crimes.
The ex-governor said yesterday he was proud of his brother. As he looked on in court today, the former governor at times nodded with his brother in agreement.
Blagojevich brother cross examination begins
Blago's brother and co-defendant took stand this morning
Rod Blagojevich's brother and co-defendant Robert took the stand this morning following his wife Julie.
Both told the jury that Robert decided to help the governor with his fundraising efforts in hopes of strengthening their relationship.
Robert Blagojevich said he was told before he began his work as chairman of Friends of Blagojevich that he should "never mix fundraising with government," and never did.
Blago's sister-in-law first witness for defense
The first witness for the defense in the trial of Rod Blagojevich was his sister-in-law Julie.
Her testimony lasted ten minutes.
The governors brother Robert is now on the stand.
Prosecution rests in Blagojevich trial
After 31 witnesses and six
weeks of testimony prosecutors rested their case late this afternoon in the
trial of Rod Blagojevich.
The last witness to take
the stand was Children's Memorial Hospital CEO Patrick Magoon.
Magoon testified that he
felt pressure to donate $25,000 to the Governors campaign after Blagojevich
approved $10 million dollars in Medicaid reimbursements to the hospital for
pediatric care.
Judge Zagel has instructed the jurors to
report back on Monday morning.
Attorney's will take the rest of this week to discuss tapes to be introduced into evidence.
Former lobbyist John Wyma takes the stand
Wyma testified that in a November 2008 meeting, Blagojevich told him he scheduled a meeting between Lon Monk and Gerry Krozel, a road builder, to try and get $500,000 from him by the end of the year. Krozel had been hoping to get a three-phase tollway contract with the state of Illinois.
Wyma stated that the ex-gov said "he wanted to see how people perform, and if they don't, F--- them." Wyma said he took that to mean the governor would hold back on the second phase of the project.
The CEO of Children's Memorial Hospital says that just five days after the Governor approved a $10 million increase in medicaid, the governors brother, Robert, called him and asked if he would be willing to raise $25,000 for his campaign fund. Patrick Magoon says he felt "threatened" and "angry."
Prosecutors in Blagojevich trial hope to rest their case
Prosecutors in the trial of Rod Blagojevich hope to rest their case today.
This morning Judge Zagel said he will instruct the jury to return on Monday while attorney's take the remainder of the week to hammer out which tapes will be admitted for the defense.
Rod Blagojevich does not have to attend.
This delay is a bonus for Blagojevich. Yesterday defense attorney's filed a motion to postpone proceedings for a week.
The filing said they needed additional time to secure witnesses due to the rapid pace of the trial. Although the judge has not addressed the motion specifically he did note the break should allow enough time for witness scheduling.
Uncomfortable morning in court room
Cross examination of former Deputy Governor Bob Greenlee has been somewhat uncomfortable this morning.
Defense Attorney Aaron Goldstein's attempt to pin down Greenlee on his definition of words such as "could" or "legitimate", prompted Goldstein to pull out a dictionary.
While one juror chuckled the judge was clearly irritated.
Judge Zagel told Goldstein dictionaries can not be used in the court room.
Also, today a hearing was held regarding the release of juror names.
Several media outlets have requested the names of jurors.
Judge Zagel initially denied the motion but an appellate court asked him to reconsider.
Today Zagel said he will take up the issue at a full hearing on Friday July 23rd.
Blago trial may rest tomorrow
The trial of former Governor Rod Blagojevich continued this morning with former Deputy Governor Bob Greenlee on the stand.
Prosecutors are near the end with just a few witnesses left and plan to rest their case tomorrow.
Later today lobbyist John Wyma is expected to testify.
Wyma had agreed to cooperate with the federal investigation by secretly recording conversations with the governor.
Blagojevich snubbed by Obama camp on election night
Prosecutors in the Rod Blagojevich trial say there is a "good chance" they will rest their case on Tuesday, indicating that the trial could be over much earlier than anticipated. Defense expected to begin by Thursday.
Rod Blagojevich was snubbed by the Obama camp on election night 2008.
Formal invitations went out for Obama's election night victory rally in Grant Park about a week before the event but the Governor did not make the list.
Fearing the press would get wind of the snub, former Deputy Gov Bob Greenlee reached out to Obama's people asking for an invitation so it would appear he was invited but assured them Blagojevich would not attend.
The day of the event Blagojevich had a change of heart and wanted to attend and had Greeley applying for credentials. This prompted an e-mail from the Obama folks asking what was going on.
Blagojevich's inner circle found it easier to "just play along"
Several witnesses who were once in Blagojevich's inner circle have said they grew tired of arguing with him and found it easier to play along.
Today's witness, Former Deputy Gov Bob Greenlee, was no different. He told the jurors that in November 2008 he agreed with the ex-governor that a Tribune article was unfair, even though he didn't believe it to be so.
Prosecutor Reid Schar asked Greenlee why he said he basically "told him what he wanted to hear." Greenley later said he would try to avoid disagreements with the Governor for fear of being shut out.
Former Deputy Governor: Blago not a workaholic
Rod Blagojevich was not what you would call a workaholic.
According to Bob Greenlee, the former Deputy Governor in 2008 the ex-governor liked to work 2 - 8 hours a week and was at times difficult to pin down.
Greenlee testified that on at least one occasion Blagojevich went as far as hiding in the restroom in an effort to avoid the budget director.
Blagojevich learns he's being recorded
Prosecutors played more than a dozen recordings some of which involved discussions between the ex-governor and his brother, Robert, and the possible appointment of Jesse Jackson Jr. To the U.S Senate seat.
Robert Blagojevich is heard relaying a message to Rod from a politically connected Indian fundraiser, Raghu Nayak, that if he were to appoint Jackson, "there would be some accelerated fund-raising on your behalf."
The former governor, who had all along opposed the appointment of Jackson, began to entertain the idea and instructed his brother to contact Nayak and tell him "stuff has to start happening now."
However plans changed when Blagojevich learned from his spokesperson December 4th that the Chicago Tribune planned to run an article the next day saying the Governor had been secretly recorded and that one of his advisers was cooperating with the federal investigation.
Former Construction Exec: Blagojevich pressured me for money
Gerald Krozel testified Tuesday saying Blagojevich appeared to offer him a stake in a $6 billion tollway expansion project in exchange for campaign contributions.
Krozel said Blagojevich was pressuring him to make the payments before a new campaign finance law took effect barring contributions from state contractors.
Prosecutors also presented statements made by Blagojevich to the FBI about rewarding campaign contributors with state contracts and jobs.
Blagojevich told the FBI he kept a "firewall" between fundraising and the government and didn't even pay attention to who was donating to him after an election.
But two former campaign staffers told a different story.
Two former aides took the stand Tuesday saying the former governor kept close track of who donated to him and would repeatedly go into tirades against those that didn't follow through with contributions.
Blagojevich says he never traded favors for campaign cash and didn't lie to the FBI.
Blago Trial: Former Construction Executive Returns to the Witness Stand Today In The Corruption Trial Of Rod Blagojevich
V.P for Prairie Material testifies in Blago trial
A former V.P for Prairie Material a building materials company has testified that the governor turned up the heat on him to get a campaign contribution by holding on to a $6 billion tollway project that was to be given to Prairie.
Gerry Krozel says in a meeting with Blagojevich in September of 2008 Blago explained the new ethics law that was scheduled to take effect the beginning of the year and the importance of donations prior to that date.
Krozel said he never intended to contribute but didn't tell that to the Governor stating "I was afraid that it could be the end of the program."
Danielle Stilz tried to quit "Friends of Blagojevich"
Danielle Stilz told the court that she had previously tried to quit Friends of Blagojevich (FOB), saying "The expectations in fund-raising seemed unrealistic to me."
When asked by the prosecutor whose expectations she was referring to, Stilz replied, "Rods'."
Earlier today another campaign FOB finance director testified. Kelly Glynn was director from 2002 to 2004.
She stated the Governor often asked her about specific people and their contribution amount but then would respond calling them "bullsh---ers" when Glynn told him the amounts.
FBI agent testifies in Blago trial
An FBI agent has testified that information supplied to him by political fundraiser Joe Cari led him to interview the former Governor regarding his fundraising practices.
Agent Patrick Murphy testified that during an interview in March of 2005 Rod Blagojevich stated he "does not track who contributes to him or how much" saying he "maintained a firewall".
Murphy went on to say that the governor equated politics with fundraising.
Under cross defense, Attorney Sam Adam Jr asked Murphy why his notes claim politics were equal to fundraising but didn't find its way into the report.
Blago trial picks up again after 4th holiday weekend
After a long holiday weekend, the trial of former Governor Rod Blagojevich picked up again today with a consultant who did work for Tony Rezko and a real estate agent.
Before proceedings began this morning the judge announced the dismissal of a juror due to family illness.
Blagojevich Loses His Temper
After the jurors were dismissed, prosecutors told the judge they are moving quickly and hope to rest their case by the second week in July.
It had been anticipated the trial could take up to five months.
Jurors heard Rod Blagojevich lose his temper today when prosecutors played a secretly recorded conversation between Blagojevich, Patti, and his advisers.
The governor became agitated when Bill Knapp suggested he should not expect to receive anything from Obama in exchange for the Senate seat, pointing out that the Tony Rezko investigation has clouded that idea.
The ex-Gov launched into a tirade, saying he needed to find ways to support his family. "Amy's going to college in six years and I can't afford it." Blagojevich also said he was not interested in a third term as governor and felt everyone was "passing him by," saying "I'm stuck in this f_____ gridlock for the next two years."
Blagojevich Couple: $220,000+ debt
Credit card bills show that Blagojevich took a liking to custom made clothing, and in April of 2006, he spent more than $18,000 at Tom James clothier.
Former advisor and Deputy Governor Doug Scofield completed testimony this morning
Former advisor and Deputy Governor Doug Scofield completed testimony this morning in the trial of Rod Blagojevich and a state ethics training director has taken the stand.
Before proceedings began this morning there was a bit of tension in the air between Judge Zagel and Defense Attorney Aaron Goldstein.
Defense attorney's filed three separate motions late yesterday asking for a mistrial, one of which accused the judge of hindering Goldsteins cross examination by sustaining repeated objections to the point where defense " was not permitted to develop evidence" which would discredit the witness.
The judge appeared angry at the mere implication and offered Goldstein a second crack at it this morning, however Goldstein declined the opportunity.
Cross Examination: Doug Scofield
Scofield told the court that he had previously expressed to Blagojevich the "unlikeliness" of him getting a cabinet appointment and decided not to argue further on the matter.
Scofield's cross examination today brought a couple moments of laughter, too. Defense attorney Aaron Goldstein stumbled on a question several times when judge Zagel finally offered a suggestion on how he could word it.
Goldstein gladly took his advice but quickly forgot and laughed and asked the judge if he could repeat the question.
Later as Goldstein was questioning Scofield he referred to a conversation where the former gov asked Scofield, "Do you agree?" Scofield replied "I do." Goildstein quipped back saying I hope that was the only time you were lying when you said i 'I do.'
Doug Scofield takes stand at Blagojevich trial
"I've got this thing an it's f______ golden".
Former Deputy Gov Doug Scofield continued his testimony this morning and with that came more FBI recordings.
Yesterday, the jury heard how the governor viewed his authority to make an appointment to the senate seat as a bargaining chip to get something for himself, telling Scofield "I've got this thing an it's f______ golden".
Today, prosecutors played a recording where the ex-governor is clearly frustrated with the lack of response from the Obama adminisration, to Blagojevich's request for a cabinet post in exchange for appointing Valerie Jarrett to the U.S. Senate seat.
Searching for other options Blagojevich asks Scofield what he thinks about asking Obama to get Patti on a couple of boards saying, "If they think they can do this without f------ giving me anything under some vague assurances or something then I'll go Jesse Jr. I mean, the arrogance of these f______ people."
Harris off the stand
After six days of testimony, Rod Blagojevich's former Chief of Staff John Harris is off the stand.
Tom Balanoff, President of the SEIU, took the witness stand shortly before lunch.
According to Balanoff in a face to face meeting with the governor November 6th 2008, Blagojevich told him that although he had been seriously considering Lisa Madigan for the Senate seat left by Obama, he could be swayed to appoint Obama's choice Valerie Jarrett if he were to head Health and Human Services.
Balanoff told prosecutors he replied by saying "that's not gonna happen."
Cross Examination: John Harris
Earlier today prosecutors played a recording of a phone conversation between the ex-Gov and Harris. In the recording, the governor throws out a list of possible candidates he could appoint to the vacant Illinois senate seat. He suggests to Harris none other than Oprah Winfrey.
Harris politely tells Blagojevich it would "diminish" him because it would appear he wanted her for her celebrity.
Blagojevich disagreed.
Blagojevich bribe to Obama backfires
Numerous FBI recordings have been played with conversations between Harris and the ex-Gov focusing on exchanging the vacant senate seat for employment for Blagojevich in the private sector or a spot with the Obama administration.
Blagojevich tried to hold the senate seat and not appoint Obama favorite Valerie Jarrett hoping Obama would award him a cabinet position or assist in some other type of employment. The plan backfired and the only thing the Obama people offered was gratitude.
The message relayed to the governor was that Obama would be "both grateful and appreciative" if the ex-gov would appoint Jarrett to senate seat.
With nothing else offered, the Governor began exploring alternatives.
Jarrett ended up taking another job within Obama administration.
'Honest Services' ruling in Blago trial
The U.S. Supreme court ruled today that a federal law which was used in part to indict former Governor Rod Blagojevich is too vague.
The high court said the "Honest Services" fraud law is not criminal unless it is directly linked to a bribe or kickback.
This prompted Blagojevich defense attorney's to file a motion asking the Judge to suspend the trial until next week so they could review the courts ruling.
Judge Zagel denied the request almost immediately telling defense attorney's he believed the ruling "does not offer a lot of hope for you".
Lawyers renewed their request for a continuance in a 2nd motion. No charges in Blagojevich case have been dropped or dismissed as a result of the justices' ruling.
Blagojevich negotiations during Obama campaign
In a recording played in court, the ex-governor is heard relaying the content of the meeting to chief of staff Harris and Fred Yang.
He tells the two that he explained to Balanoff he wanted the secretary of HHS appointment and stated "if that was available to me I could do Valerie Jarrett in a heartbeat," meaning he could appoint Jarrett to the Illinois senate seat to be vacated by Barack Obama.
More recorded convos played in Blago trial
Prosecutors play more tapes today between Rod Blagojevich and his then chief of staff John Harris but the theme remains the same.
Several discussions between the governor and Harris relating to strategic ways to relay the message to Obama that he wants the Health and Human Services Cabinet spot if he gives Valerie Jarrett the Senate seat position.
Blago's chief of staff continues testimony
The trial of Rod Blagojevich picked up today with the governor's former chief of staff continuing his testimony, most of which has been damaging to the defendant.
Shopping for jobs in hopes of an exchange with the Obama administration for the Senate seat, Blagojevich instructed John Harris to research the salary of various CEO positions of private foundations stating he wanted "something big."
Blagojevich trial exhibit for June 22
Below is the link for today's, June 22.
LINK TO FULL DOCUMENTS: http://www.justice.gov/usao/iln/hot/us_v_blagojevich.html#Jun22
Here is an example of one of the linked documents included in the list. This is a transcript of a conversation between John Harris and Rod Blagojevich:
HARRIS I've read papers, we've read papers, we you know, we know, we know what the rumors are out there, but again...
BLAGOJEVICH So he's talking about Valerie Jarrett?
HARRIS Yeah. So he said well do you think it would be helpful for Barack to call Rod? I said, well if he has strong feelings about somebody I would imagine he would. He wouldn't leave it to osmosis or, you know, the media, I would hope. Uh, so you may get a call from him or Dave.
BLAGOJEVICH Dave who?
HARRIS Axelrod.
BLAGOJEVICH Oh yeah.
Find more of these documents and audio files on the Northern District of Illinois website.
Blagojevich vs. Chicago Tribune
In an FBI recording, the ex-governor tells his chief of staff to get in touch with the Tribune and tell the paper to "fire all those f_____g people. Get them the f___ out of there and get us support," referring to the editorial board.
Earlier this afternoon prosecutors played another tape between Blagojevich and John Harris where they discussed the soon-to-be vacant senate seat. Blagojevich was asking Harris for advice on how to bring up his desire to be appointed head of Health and Human services by Obama if he were to appoint Valerie Jarrett. Jarrett had been recommended by Obama.
John Harris tells all to jury
John Harris has told the jury that although Barack Obama was interested in having Valerie Jarrett appointed to the U.S. Senate seat, Rod Blagojevich kept Illinois Senate President Emil Jones as a fallback.
He asked Harris to discuss campaign contributions off campus with Jones.
In an FBI recording played for the court Blagojevich asks Harris to discuss a topic with Jones.
Harris later explained the topic was about Emil Jones giving him some or all of his funds in his campaign chest.
Former chief of staff offers damaging testimony
Former chief of staff John Harris has offered some damaging testimony this morning in the trial of Rod Blagojevich.
According to Harris in 2008 it was becoming clear that Barack Obama could be leaving the Senate for the White House.
In a car ride with Harris then Governor Blagojevich asked him "what do you think I could get for the Senate seat?".
A question that would come up again causing the administrations attorney to admonish the governor and instructing him to not "say things like that."
'Free Blago!'
Rod Blagojevich arrived at the courthouse today to a welcoming group of supporters.
As he entered the courtroom a small crowd in the hall cheered him on yelling "free Blago!"
The former governor stopped and told the supporters "I didn't let you down and this is the process to show it"
Patti Blagojevich's business was failing
Former chief of staff John Harris testified that Blagojevich told him " Patti's business was failing" and he needed to" find her a job."
Harris says he told the governor he didn't think it was a good idea to place her on the pollution board because she lacked qualification.
He then instructed Harris to put a list together of financial firms that do business with the state and see if Patti could get employment in finance.
John Johnston "victim of Blagojevich shakedown"
Back in 2008, critical legislation was before the state that would give track owners, like Johnston, $9,000 a day if Blagojevich signed this particular bill. Johnston told the jury Lon Monk, his lobbyist at the time, was hounding him about a campaign donation for Blagojevich while the bill sat unsigned.
At one point, shortly after leaving FOB headquarters and speaking with the then-Governor, Monk really put the pressure on to write a check. Without it, Johnston told the jury, that Monk told him Blagojevich was afraid if he signed the bill, they would never get the donation.
Blagojevich was arrested December 9th, 2008.
The bill was eventually signed 6 days later. Johnston never made another donation to Blagojevich. He never talked to Monk again either.
Patti sporting new haircut as her husband's trial resumes
No talk about the prosecutors request for a gag order yet.
Jurors filed in at 9:40 a.m.
Patti got a new haircut--she is going for the Anna Wintour look, Vogues editor in chief. She has the Chicago version...
John Johnston just took the stand. He is part owner of Balmoral and Maywood racetracks.
Prosecutors will get him to say he was approached by the Blagojevich administration in a shakedown.
More later.
**VIDEO OF BLAGOJEVICH AND PATTI ENTERING COURTHOUSE. PATTI SPORTING A NEW HAIRCUT**
Day 11 of Blagojevich trial underway
Day 11 of the Blagojevich trial is underway with racetrack executive John Johnston on the stand.
Blagojevich has been accused of shaking down Johnston for campaign funds in exchange for signing legislation that would have benefited the horse racing industry.
Business man received position after donating
A businessman who helped raise money and donated to Blagojevich's campaign said he was possibly expecting and did receive a position with the Governor's administration.
On two separate occasions Ali Ata donated $25,000 to the campaign.
At a Navy Pier fundraiser, Ata recalled the former governor thanking him for his support and said he knew he would be joining the administration.
Ata said the governor then told him "it better be a job where (Ata) can make some money."
Blagojevich-themed menu in courthouse cafeteria
A new sandwich was offered today at the courthouse cafe in the Dirksen federal building.
"The innocent - a.k.a Blago" sandwich was written on a menu board in the cafeteria.
At the bottom of the board it is suggested customers should try the "patty melt".
The board was erased a short time later.
Jurors frequent the cafe as well as the defendants. Rod Blagojevich is often spotted chatting with the cashiers.
Photo courtesy of Susan Berger
Drama outside the courtroom
After spending two days on the stand in the trial of Rod Blagojevich, a witness takes a bump on the head, then rolls to the ground outside the federal building.
Joseph Cari and a videographer knocked into each other just as Cari exited.
When Cari and a camera lens collided, Cari slowly dropped to the ground, throwing his hands back over his head, then rolling over on his stomach. He remained there, barely moving, for what felt like minutes.
After 911 was called and a US Marshal came out to help, Cari got up, took his glasses, walked back into the Dirksen Building and out the opposite door.
Joseph Cari is a cooperating witness for the Government who has agreed to testify in hopes of reducing his own sentence.
Court resumes this afternoon.
Cari: Felt pressure to organizer fundraisers
A former national fundraiser Joe Cari remains on the stand today in the trial of Rod Blagojevich.
Cari has testified that he felt pressure by Blagojevich, Kelly, Rezko and Levine to organize fundraisers for the Governor.
When he turned the offer down he says Levine explained he could get additional state business for his law firm and private equity firm. Cari told the court he understood that to be a "quid pro quo"
Gag Order in Rod Blagojevich Trial
In a filing this afternoon prosecutors asked for a "court intervention" based on concerns that jurors could be inadvertently exposed to all the media attention.
Judge Zagel has not yet addressed the matter.
UPDATE: Responding to a motion filed by prosecutors to issue a gag order the judge has asked attorneys to talk amongst themselves and figure it out saying a gag order would be a last resort. He will address the issue again on Monday morning.
Cross Examination: Joe Aramanda
Joe Aramanda has testified that at Tony Rezko's direction he received money from a consultant Sheldon Pekin who did work for the TRS board, however Aramanda admitted to never doing any work yet received a check for $125,000.
Aramanda also said he once had a conversation with Rezko where Rezko informed him he would be splitting his earnings from these deals with Rezko, Monk, Kelly and Rod Blagojevich. Aramanda told Rezko that he was "uncomfortable" with the idea and eventually backed out of the consulting business.
US v. Blagojevich: Trial Exhibits
Anyone with a computer and with Adobe Reader can view these documents on their website:
LINK TO FULL DOCUMENTS: http://www.justice.gov/usao/iln/hot/us_v_blagojevich.html
Here is an example of one of the linked documents included in the list. This is a transcript of a conversation between Alonzo Lon Monk and Rod Blagojevich:
DATE: 11/20/2008
TIME: 9:59 A.M.
ACTIVITY: Rod Blagojevich home line incoming call.
SESSION: 851
SPEAKERS:
BLAGOJEVICH: Rod Blagojevich
MONK: Alonzo (Lon) Monk
* * * * * * *
1 BLAGOJEVICH Hey Lon, sorry.
2 MONK Hey, no problem. Um, (PAUSE) oh yeah,
3 so I just, I'm not returning his call.
4 BLAGOJEVICH Yeah, oh, by no means.
5 MONK Right.
6 BLAGOJEVICH Yeah. Oh, yeah.
7 (BEEPING SOUND)
8 BLAGOJEVICH Yeah, he's gonna, he'll offer you fund 9 raising and all kinds of stuff.
10 MONK Right. Have you, has anybody talked to11 him?
12 BLAGOJEVICH I haven't. He's got people callin'
13 (BEEP) me. Hold, hold on a second
14 Lon...
15 MONK Yeah.
16 BLAGOJEVICH Hang on 75, 752-8450. I think I'll let
17 that go. I don't know who that is. Um,
18 no, you should just ignore that, right?
19 MONK Yeah, yeah.
Find more of these documents and audio files on the Northern District of Illinois website.
Lon Monk off the stand
After four days of testimony, Lon Monk is off the stand.
He left without saying a word to reporters.
Next witness is David Abel, Former Director of Debt Management for the State of Illinois.
Trial Tapes from last four days
Blago's defense attorney's hammer away at Lon Monk
Defense attorney's for Rod Blagojevich hammered away this morning at the prosecutions witness Lon Monk, poking holes in his story and getting him to admit that he lied to the FBI in an earlier interview.
Attorney Sam Adam also asked Monk how it was that he could recall a meeting in 2004 where he, Tony Rezko and Rod Blagojevich were discussing plans to make money using their state positions, but when pushed Monk could not remember specifically what those ideas were.
"The man is sitting here charged with these ideas that you are saying, and you can't remember one of them?" Adam said.
Lon Monk on stand for third day
Former chief of staff Lon Monk is on the stand for the third day and has testified that he felt "pressure" to bring in campaign funds.
Meanwhile prosecutors have played several FBI recordings where Monk, Rod and Robert Blagojevich discuss how to get a campaign contribution from a racetrack owner in exchange for passing legislation.
No "Scrutiny" for Money
Lon Monk told the court that in 2003 at Rezkos office the four discussed that the money would be divided "equally" but would not be distributed until Blagojevich had left office.
Monk said they believed there wouldn't be much "scrutiny" if they waited.
They sat at a long conference table with a blackboard easel set up for Tony Rezko to use as he led the meeting. Eight to nine ideas were on the board with monetary figures by each one. Each idea was supposed to generate a minimum of $100,000.
Witness No. 2: Lon Monk
They go way back to their law school days in Malibu. Monk was a trusted confidante and even was an usher in Blagojevich's wedding.
There was virtually no eye contact between the two men when monk entered court today. Monk has plead guilty in this case and is cooperating with the Government in hopes of only serving two years in prison.
So far, no fireworks...Government is trying to show how monk and others were close to the ex-Gov...plotting together to make money off of the state.
More later...
First day of testimony for Blagojevich trial
The first day of testimony began in the Blagojevich trial today with the prosecution calling an FBI agent who conducted wiretaps on Blagojevich and his campaign office.
Blagojevich's former chief of staff and one time close friend, Lon Monk, is expected to testify this afternoon.
Trial done for the day
The trial has ended for the day and both sides are headed home.
For more on the trial coverage, click here.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Quotes
Carrie Hamilton
Asst. U. S. Attorney
"In politics, money is power and the inner circle knew this."
Carrie Hamilton
Asst. U.S. Attorney
Opening statements pushed back to 1pm
The first day to hear about the case and already the judge is behind schedule.
A jury's been selected and sworn in: 11 women, 7 men.
Opening statements were scheduled for 11am...now they're pushed back to 1pm, after lunch.
The courtroom is elbow to elbow: Rod, when not in the presence of the judge, is still glad handing in the gallery... Joking with courtroom sketch artists.
His wife, Patti, sits in the front row next to her brother. Robert Blagojevich is joined by his wife, Julie, in court for the first time today.
After the swearing in of jurors, the judge laid out a few rules of law: innocent until proven guilty, burden of proof lies with the Government and guilt must be proven beyond a reasonable doubt.
On top of that, jurors were instructed not to talk about the case with anyone, don't read or watch anything about it, don't do any research about the case or investigate anything about it. He also told them to keep an open mind.
We broke for lunch-then back at 1. Prosecutors speak first...
Blago describes today's trial as a 'historic day'
Rod Blagojevich told reporters this morning as he entered the court house that he would like to thank the members of the jury for their service.
Arriving just after 9:30 a.m., Blagojevich said this is the beginning and called it a "historic day."
Jury instructions have begun in the trial of blagojevich.Openings scheduled for 1 p.m.
(The press.)
Opening statements set for Tuesday
Prosecutors say they will speak for 45 minutes, while defense Attorney Sam Adam asked the court for two and a half hours. The judge quickly rejected that request and instructed him to keep it under an hour and 45 minutes.
Nearly ninety people have been questioned since Thursday. Fifty remain in the jury pool. Final jurors will be selected in the morning.
Jury Selection: Day 3
A young man may be hit with a double whammy. He just finished serving on a jury at 26th and Cal two weeks ago.
Another possible juror said on questionnaire "most politicians are motivated by ego control and money". He then told judge he can be fair.
A TV music show host and former DJ for Q101 was among this morning's group of potential jurors.
The man said the topic of Blagojevich did come up on his radio show but did not recall if he expressed his own opinion regarding the case.
UPDATE 3:42PMApproximately 50 people have been selected for the jury pool in the trial for Rod Blagojevich. That number could be narrowed down by the end of today or early tomorrow. Nearly ninety people have been questioned since Thursday.
Narrowing jury selection in Blagojevich trial
Judge Zagel spent 15 minutes with lawyers reducing the number of jurors for cause. Right now lawyers have 34 in the overall pool to choose from. The judge wants 40 plus. Likely tomorrow, lawyers will begin the process of using peremptory strikes: defense can strike 13 jurors, prosecutors can strike 9 until the judge has a jury of 12 and a handful of alternates. Opening statements are expected Tuesday.
The Jury
DAY 2:
As of late morning 19 jurors remain in pool. Judge Zagel began questioning the second group at 11 a.m. this morning. One of the potential jurors is a man who said yesterday he believed Rod Blagojevich to be guilty.
The Ex-Governor speaks
Dressed in a dark brown suit, Rod Blagojevich entered the Dirksen Federal Building with his wife by his side. Patti stood dutifully in a conservative navy blue suit as the ousted politician took to the mics ready for another day in court. He used the opportunity to compliment the judge for the way he ran his courtroom, quoted a few historical figures and off to the courtroom he went.
Inside, while waiting for the judge, he sat tightly wrapped around his wife in the front row of the court. They snuggled awkwardly as Rod's older brother Rob, and co-defendant, sat no more than 5 feet away....avoiding all eye contact and conversation with the Blagojeviches. The dry and tedious, but critical courtroom business continues. As always, Blagojevich smiles through it all.
Blagojevich greeted by dozens of cameras
At the crowded and somewhat chaotic entrance, he said, "I feel good."
WGN-TV Team 9 Trial Coverage
The trial team has assembled. I'm not talking about Blagojevich's attorneys. I'm talking about Team 9: Julie Unruh, reporter; Kelly Barnicle, producer; Terry Sullivan, Legal Analyst.
Kelly arrived at 6:30am with a sea of photographers all waiting to get inside. For some it felt like the first day of school-- that anxious and excited feeling. For others it was like a family reunion...The Blagojevich Trial Begins Thursday, June 3
Blagojevich faces 24 counts of corruption, including bribery, extortion and racketeering, but several of counts include charges of honest services fraud.
He was arrested on December 9, 2008, the day before his 52nd birthday. He was taken into federal custody from his North Side home early that morning.
