After verdict, Blagojevich jurors may have to decide money issues, too
By APWednesday, August 4, 2010
Blagojevich jurors may decide money issues, too
CHICAGO — Jurors in Rod Blagojevich’s corruption trial may have to decide on financial penalties that could see his Chicago home seized if they convict the ousted Illinois governor of racketeering.
A determination about what Blagojevich would have to pay would kick in only if he’s found guilty of racketeering — just one of 24 counts jurors are weighing. Judge James Zagel said Wednesday that jurors may have to turn around and head back to the jury room to decide the amount.
Attorneys and prosecutors agreed on instructions that would be read to jurors if they had to do that. But Blagojevich could also ask the judge to come up with the figure.
Blagojevich has pleaded not guilty to trying to sell an appointment to President Barack Obama’s former Senate seat.
