The Verdict: The Beldini Trial, Epilogue
By John R. Bohrer • Feb 11th, 2010 • Category: Featured, News, Politics
Sometime in the mid to late afternoon on the second day of deliberations, after about nine cumulative hours of discussion, the jury reached a verdict in the case of Leona Beldini.
Not guilty on four counts. The ones about her role in a conspiracy and the attempt to commit extortion through the real estate deal. But she didn’t beat the wrap for accepting the $20,000 in illegal campaign contributions, what the prosecution construed as bribes. There, she was convicted on two counts, with a max sentence of 20 years. She’ll never do that kind of time, not even close, but The Bow Tie vowed to appeal anyway.
I can’t really tell you how it happened. I wasn’t there. At 4:49 p.m., this writer’s phone rang from a 973 number — the courthouse. I didn’t pick up.
Like a lot of New Jerseyans, I had seen enough.
Like what you've read here? Please consider making a donation or becoming a sustaining member. As a grassroots news organization, we rely on community support -- as well as paid advertising -- to survive.
John R. Bohrer is a New Jersey-based writer who is currently writing a book about Senator Robert Kennedy and his young aides.
Email this author | All posts by John R. Bohrer
