Opening statements begin in Pa. corruption trial of former high-ranking state House Democrat

Opening statements begin in Pa. corruption trial

HARRISBURG, Pa. — Opening statements are under way in the trial of a former state lawmaker and three former aides arrested in the Pennsylvania attorney general’s legislative corruption investigation.

Monday is first day of what could be a monthlong trial in Dauphin County court.

Former Rep. Mike Veon and his co-defendants are accused of theft, conspiracy and conflict of interest by diverting public resources to wage political campaigns.

The Beaver County Democrat was charged in 2008 along with 11 others connected to the House Democrats. Former House Speaker John Perzel and nine others connected to the House Republicans have also been charged.

A total of 25 people have been charged. The only person to go to trial so far, former Rep. Sean Ramaley, won a full acquittal in December.

(This version CORRECTS that 11 others were charged, not 11 former House Democratic staff aides.)