Joint Defense Motion Denied Amid Jury Deliberations in Madiagn Corruption Trial
Judge Denies Motion Despite Defense Concerns
Judge John Robert Blakey denied a joint defense motion filed by Michael Madigan’s and Michael McClain’s attorneys, despite concerns about the jury instructions presented last Friday. The motion was argued on Monday, with defense attorneys claiming that the new instructions could cause issues with the jury’s evaluation of evidence.
Defense Fears Flawed Instructions
Attorneys for Madigan and McClain claimed that the revised instructions are flawed and could lead to juror error in the evaluation of evidence. They specifically expressed concerns about how jurors would handle the concepts of bonafide salaries and wages in relation to multiple criminal counts.
Prosecutors Push Back
Prosecutors, however, argued that the judge’s guidance does not change the evidence that jurors are considering. Lead prosecutor Amar Bhachu stated that the defense motions should be denied, citing the extensive months-long affair that went into crafting the jury instructions.
Defensive Strategy?
Legal experts suggest that the defense teams are moving to preserve any questionable issues for possible appeal. By raising concerns about jury instructions, the defense is attempting to execute a preventive strategy.
Experts Weigh In
Paul Lisnek, a legal analyst with WGN News, believes that both sides are attempting to execute preventive strategies. “Both sides are worried and thinking ahead to a possible appeal that would occur only in the event of a conviction of Michael Madigan or Michael McClain,” he said.
Jury Deliberations Resume
Jury deliberations in the federal corruption trial of Madigan and McClain will resume for a 10th day on Tuesday.
Conclusion
The denial of the joint defense motion marks a significant development in the ongoing trial. As the jury continues to deliberate, both sides will likely continue to employ defensive strategies to mitigate any potential harm.
FAQs
* Who is Michael Madigan?
+ Michael Madigan is the former Illinois House Speaker who has been charged with a 20-count racketeering bribery and wire fraud indictment.
* What is the trial about?
+ The trial is a federal corruption trial accusing Madigan and his former confidant, Michael McClain, of corruption and fraud.
* What are the charges against Madigan and McClain?
+ They are charged with 20 counts of racketeering, bribery, and wire fraud.
* What is the current status of the trial?
+ Jury deliberations will resume for a 10th day on Tuesday.
