Prosecution sums up its case at Cleveland trial of federal drug agent

By Thomas J. Sheeran, AP
Wednesday, February 3, 2010

Government sums up case against drug agent in Ohio

CLEVELAND — The prosecutor in the Cleveland trial of a federal drug agent accused of helping frame 17 people says there’s enough evidence to convict even without considering the testimony of a corrupt informant.

In closing arguments Wednesday, prosecutor Bruce Teitelbaum (TY’-tel-bahm) told jurors that people were framed in the 2005 Mansfield sting directed by Lee Lucas, and that even known drug dealers who were targeted have rights.

The case is expected to go to the jury later Wednesday.

Lucas faces 18 charges, including obstruction of justice and perjury. The case prompted the government to drop charges related to tips provided by Lucas’ paid informant in Mansfield.

The informant, who testified for the government, is serving 15 years for perjury and civil rights violations against those targeted.

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