Trial Wrapping Up For Power Broker William Cellini
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
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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.
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