Indicted lawmaker Jefferson disputes charges, venue

[struggle4progress]

Jefferson: Prosecutors want trial in an area with fewer blacks

12:00 AM CDT on Saturday, September 8, 2007

WASHINGTON – Rep. William Jefferson, D-La., indicted on federal bribery charges, said Friday in court papers that he did nothing illegal and accused prosecutors of bringing the case against him in Virginia because there would be fewer black jurors.

The motions filed in U.S. District Court in suburban Alexandria, Va., provided the first look at Mr. Jefferson's defense strategy as he fights a 16-count indictment and asks a judge to dismiss 14 of the charges or move the case to the District ...

"In essence, the indictment alleges that Mr. Jefferson was employed to help these businesses and received compensation in return," the motion said. "In this regard, it is important to note that it is not illegal – or even a violation of House Rules – for a member to have outside employment."

The papers also say that the FBI used a cooperating witness to steer the case to Virginia. Blacks account for a smaller proportion of the potential jurors there than in Washington, where they make up the majority of the population ...

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