Federal Judge Refuses To Acquit Jurist Convicted Of Fraud

CHICAGO (AP) -- A federal judge has refused to overturn the fraud conviction of an Illinois judge.

Earlier this year, a jury convicted Cook County Circuit Judge Jessica O'Brien of fraudulently obtaining mortgages for Chicago investment properties and illegally pocketing more than $300,000.

U.S. District Judge Thomas M. Durkin on Tuesday denied several motions made by defense lawyers for O'Brien, including those seeking an acquittal or a new trial.

Defense attorney Steve Greenberg said he was disappointed by Durkin's 45-page ruling.

Prosecutors say O'Brien lied to lenders and concealed facts to obtain more than $1.4 million in mortgages. They were obtained for properties she purchased and sold. She is scheduled to be sentenced Oct. 9.

The Illinois Supreme Court suspended O'Brien's law license in April, yet she continues to draw a salary. She filed paperwork to seek retention in November's election.

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