Blagojevich prosecutor to jury: Ex-governor was not naive bumbler portrayed by defense
By Michael Tarm, APTuesday, July 27, 2010
Blagojevich prosecutor: Ex-governor not naive
CHICAGO — A federal prosecutor in Rod Blagojevich’s corruption trial says the former governor is not the bumbling, naive victim portrayed by defense attorneys.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Reid Schar told jurors Tuesday that Blagojevich is a smart man and experienced politician who knows better than to explicitly ask for money or other favors. But he says Blagojevich “knows how to communicate” his intent.
Schar is delivering the rebuttal to closing arguments by Blagojevich defense attorney Sam Adam Jr. Adam said Blagojevich is a big talker and bad judge of character but not a criminal.
Blagojevich has pleaded not guilty to charges that include trying to sell or trade an appointment to the Senate seat Barack Obama vacated when he was elected president.
