Homestretch for fed case at Blagojevich retrial

[May 18, 2011]  CHICAGO (AP) -- Fewer than a half-dozen prosecution witnesses remain to be called at the retrial of impeached Illinois Gov. Rod Blagojevich.

The trial resumes Wednesday with the defense cross-examining a Blagojevich college pal-turned-aide, Lon Monk.

Prosecutors said Tuesday they'd only call four or five more witnesses. That means they're likely to end up putting a total of around 20 witnesses on the stand. They called some 30 at the first trial.

Prosecutors have heeded complaints from hung jurors last year that the government case was overly complicated.

They've streamlined by asking witnesses fewer questions and not offering details about Blagojevich's working habits, his penchant for fine clothes or other matters not directly related to the 20 charges.

It isn't clear if the defense will call any witnesses.

Blagojevich denies any wrongdoing.

[Associated Press; By MICHAEL TARM]

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