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Blagojevich's ex-chief of staff pleads not guilty
[April 24, 2009] CHICAGO (AP) -- A former chief of staff who served under ousted Gov. Rod Blagojevich pleaded not guilty Thursday in the federal corruption case involving the former Illinois governor.
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Alonzo Monk, 50, a longtime Blagojevich friend, was charged with one count of wire fraud in a 19-count indictment that also named another former chief of staff, John Harris, the former governor and others. Although Monk pleaded not guilty, federal prosecutors said they expect him to make a deal and take the stand as a government witness if the case goes to trial. Harris, who also has pleaded not guilty, is cooperating with the government, his attorneys said. Monk, who became a lobbyist after leaving the governor's office, is accused of plotting with Blagojevich and others to use the governor's office as a moneymaking machine, with the proceeds to be distributed after Blagojevich left office. The indictment also accused Monk of scheming with Blagojevich to provide convicted fundraiser Tony Rezko with influence over boards and commissions in exchange for cash gifts totaling $70,000 to $90,000 to pay for a car and home improvements. Federal prosecutors have accused Blagojevich of trying to trade or sell President Barack Obama's former U.S. Senate seat and using his office to pressure businesses for campaign donations. Blagojevich has pleaded not guilty. |
