Watch CBS News

Blagojevich Trial Witness Arrested For Shoplifting

Updated 11/06/10 - 1:23 p.m.

CHICAGO (CBS) -- A prominent businessman who figured in the corruption trial of former Governor Rod Blagojevich is free on bond following arrest on a retail theft charge.

LISTEN: Newsradio 780's Bob Roberts Reports

Podcast

Cook County Criminal Court Judge James Brown freed Rajinder Bedi, 58, on a $10,000 personal recognizance bond Saturday afternoon.

Prosecutors said he allegedly attempted to shoplift $166 worth of merchandise from a Home Depot at 6211 N. Lincoln Av. on Friday.

Bedi is a former newspaper editor who also was the state's international trade director till he resigned under pressure last year.

He testified during the Blagojevich trial that he was present when U.S. Rep. Jesse Jackson Jr. and a supporter discussed fundraising and the congressman's interest in the Senate seat vacated by President Obama.

View CBS News In
CBS News App Open
Chrome Safari Continue
Be the first to know
Get browser notifications for breaking news, live events, and exclusive reporting.