Tuesday, August 17, 2010

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Blagojevich jurors ask for transcript of former aide's testimony

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[August 17, 2010]  CHICAGO -- Jurors remain buried in deliberations on Monday in the corruption trial of former Illinois Gov. Rod Blagojevich, but they are maintaining contact with the judge -- an indication of a jury looking to avoid deadlock.

HardwareThe jury sent federal Judge James Zagel a note on Monday morning requesting trial transcripts from the testimony of former Deputy Gov. Bradley Tusk. The judge granted the request but noted that Tusk's testimony was not particularly "earth shattering."

Tusk, who served as Blagojevich's No. 2 during his first term, testified that the ex-governor often neglected governance -- including signing laws -- in order to focus on fundraising. But Tusk's most hard-hitting testimony portrayed a governor looking to play tough, even if it meant shaking down state players for cash.

The former deputy governor said he refused alleged Blagojevich orders to halt a $2 million grant to a charter school backed by then Illinois congressman Rahm Emanuel. The ex-governor was allegedly trying to barter the grant for a fundraiser with Emanuel's brother, Hollywood talent agent Ari.

The alleged plot is tied to several charges, including racketeering, extortion and bribery.

The grant eventually was released -- without a fundraiser. Tusk said he was still "disgusted" by the ordeal.

Zagel previously rejected the jury's request on July 30 for the entire trial transcript. He left the jurors the option to ask for specific portions of transcript, an option they did not exercise until Monday.

The jury, now in its 13th day of deliberations, revealed on Thursday it had reached a unanimous decision on only two of Blagojevich's 24 charges. Members were deadlocked or undecided on 11 of the counts and had yet to consider another 11. The jury will return to deliberations on Tuesday.

[Illinois Statehouse News; By BILL McMORRIS]

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