Springfield businessman William Cellini has been nicknamed both “The King of Clout” and “The Pope” for his significant influence in Illinois politics. (AP File Photo)
Don't Miss This
CHICAGO (CBS) — It’s a day off for the jury, but, not for the judge or lawyers in the trial of millionaire businessman and powerbroker William Cellini.
As WBBM Newsradio’s Regine Schlesinger reports, the federal case is wrapping up.
On Monday, U.S. District Judge James B. Zagel will meet with prosecutors and the defense team, and hammer out instructions the judge will deliver to jurors before they begin deliberations.
LISTEN: WBBM Newsradio’s Regine Schlesinger reports
Cellini, 76, is accused of conspiring with three others to squeeze the Oscar-winning producer of “Million Dollar Baby” for a $1.5 million campaign contribution to since-deposed Gov. Rod Blagojevich.
Prosecutors say Cellini conspired with Blagojevich insiders Tony Rezko and Chris Kelly, and former state-board member Stuart Levine to squeeze move executive Thomas Rosenberg for a contribution by threatening his investment company with the loss of $220 million in state pension money from the pension system unless he made the donation.
The judge sent jurors home Friday after the Springfield Republican’s attorneys called four witnesses as part of their defense.
(TM and © Copyright 2011 CBS Radio Inc. and its relevant subsidiaries. CBS Radio and EYE Logo TM and Copyright 2011 CBS Broadcasting Inc. Used under license. All Rights Reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed. The Associated Press contributed to this report.)
