Lawyer for Blagojevich’s brother: Ousted governor’s attorneys may call no witnesses
By APTuesday, July 20, 2010
Brother’s lawyer: Blago’s side may call no witness
CHICAGO — An attorney for Rod Blagojevich’s brother says the ousted governor’s attorneys are thinking about resting their case without calling any witnesses — even though Blagojevich had vowed to take the stand.
Michael Ettinger, an attorney for Robert Blagojevich, said after court adjourned Tuesday that Rod Blagojevich’s legal team would make their position clear soon.
If the ousted governor did not testify, if would be a sharp departure from what he has been saying, that he wants to take the stand to tell his side.
Judge James B. Zagel adjourned court early without explanation after the attorneys huddled for a private discussion, and said court would resume Wednesday morning.
Both Blagojevich brothers have pleaded not guilty to a scheme to sell or trade the Senate seat that President-elect Barack Obama was giving up to move to the White House.
THIS IS A BREAKING NEWS UPDATE. Check back soon for further information. AP’s earlier story is below.
CHICAGO (AP) — An attorney for Rod Blagojevich’s brother has told the judge in the ousted governor’s corruption case that his side will rest if his brother’s attorneys call no witnesses.
Michael Ettinger, a lawyer for Robert Blagojevich, said he was going to rest if Rod Blagojevich’s attorneys don’t put on any witnesses.
If the ousted governor did not testify, if would be a sharp departure from what he has been saying, that he wants to take the stand to tell his side.
After the attorneys huddled for a private discussion, Judge James B. Zagel adjourned court early without explanation. Court will resume Wednesday.
Both Blagojevich brothers have pleaded not guilty to a scheme to sell or trade the Senate seat that President-elect Barack Obama was giving up to move to the White House.
