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Sheldon Sorosky's brief words and calm tone brought an end to the
19-month saga the former Illinois governor has faced since his
arrest in December 2008 on federal corruption charges. It was a
move that shocked trial observers and the prosecution when the
defense introduced the idea on Tuesday. The jury, which heard it for
the first time on Wednesday, looked equally puzzled, some turning to
each other in whispers, as Sorosky took his seat. Blagojevich's
defense team had told the 18 jurors Blagojevich would be taking the
stand in his own defense.
"It is my decision under advice of counsel (not to testify),"
Blagojevich told federal Judge James Zagel after the jury was
dismissed.
Blagojevich has been very vocal about his innocence and long
promised to take the stand.
The jury will soon be brought back into the courtroom. Closing
arguments are expected on Monday, more than two months earlier than
expected.
Blagojevich faces more than 400 years in prison if convicted of
the more than 20 corruption charges, including racketeering.
[Illinois
Statehouse News; By BILL McMORRIS]
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