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* WhoTalking.com * Twitter * Top Tweets * Top Users * Trending by Locations * Facebook * Place Search * Post Search * Page Search * Event Search * Group Search * * Tweet it * * twitter * facebook Logo Type the topic in any language to check out real time results of Who's Talking on Social Media Sites _____________________ [ Check it Out ] IFrame * Twitter + Facebook * Twitter * Facebook * Google+ * Youtube * Flickr * Picasa * Digg * Forums Most recent 24 results returned for keyword: Judge Zagel (Search this on MAP) ChicagOpinion ChicagOpinion: Blago will not get a new trial: Judge Zagel angry at Blago's Attorney 1 Kaeseberg Digg On Monday, former Illinois Governor Rod Blagojevich's attorney Lauren Kaeseberg was totally shut down in her court filing that claimed a Blagojevich trial juror 1 month ago - From www.examiner.com - Comments: 0 zadmom zadmom: Rod Blagojevich gets 14 years | Washington Times Communities 2 Judge James Zagel sentenced former Illinois governor Rod Blagojevich to 14 years in prison. Judge Digg Zagel is a hero. Rod Blagojevich gets 14 years | Washington Times Communities 1 month ago - From communities.washingtontimes.com - Comments: 0 kamurj kamurj: Blagojevich sentenced to 14 years for corruption - Reuters 1 CHICAGO -?Update, 1:30 p.m. ET:?Judge sentences ousted Ill. Gov. Rod Blagojevich to 14 years in Digg prison for corruption. Update, 1:25 p.m. ET:?Judge Zagel says he is considering issuing a 12.5 to 15.5-year jail sentence, NBC reports. Update, 1:20 Blagojevich sentenced to 14 years for corruption - Reuters 1 month ago - From www.efabula.com - Comments: 0 readingonwalden readingonwalden: Rod Blagojevich sentenced to 14 years, must serve at least 12 years 1 By John Presta, contact me at johnpresta@att.net Digg Rod Blagojevich got the book thrown at him in Federal District Court, as Judge James Zagel sentenced him to 14 years in prison. An impassioned plea by Blagolevich to the court was not enough to move Judge Zagel from applying this stiff sentence to Blagojevich. Rod Blagojevich sentenced to 14 years, must serve at least 12 years 1 month ago - From www.examiner.com - Comments: 0 playerrich33 playerrich33: U.S. News - Blagojevich sentenced to 14 years in prison 1 CHICAGO -? Digg Update, 1:30 p.m. ET: Judge sentences ousted Ill. Gov. Rod Blagojevich to 14 years in prison for corruption. Update, 1:25 p.m. ET: Judge Zagel says he is considering issuing a 12.5 to 15.5-year jail sentence, NBC reports. Update, 1:20 p.m. U.S. News - Blagojevich sentenced to 14 years in prison 1 month ago - From usnews.msnbc.msn.com - Comments: 1 info0125 info0125: Judge Zagel threatens to hold Blagojevich lawyer in contempt 1 A fiery clash between Rod Blagojevich's lawyer and judge broke out at the end of court, with the Digg judge threatening to hold Sam Adam Jr. in contempt of court if he didn't abide by his ruling and Adam later vowing to go to jail over the dispute Judge Zagel threatens to hold Blagojevich lawyer in contempt 1 year ago - From info2501.wordpress.com - Comments: 0 nbcchicago nbcchicago: It's Up to the Jury Now... 1 Rod Blagojevich has done everything he can to convince 12 citizens he is not guilty of the Digg massive indictment he faces.Actually, the former governor did nothing, having withdrawn his promise to testify. But his attorney Sam Adam Jr. sent his own blood pressure through the roof the Dirksen Federal Building Tuesday as he shouted and stalked the courtroom, insisting on his client's innocence."I promised you in opening statement that Rod was going to get up there and take the stand," Adam said. "I had no idea that in two months of trial, they would prove nothing."In a lengthy argument where he bounced from topic to topic, and from corner to corner of the courtroom, Adam alternately screamed, and whispered, and waved his arms as he assailed the government's case."He had no intent to bribe anybody," Adam shouted. "No intent to extort anybody!"He acted especially outraged at the allegations that Blagojevich attempted to sell an open Senate seat."Think about who they're telling you he's trying to extort," he exclaimed. "The President of the United States! Give me a break! The number one law enforcement official in the country!""What I did was just the best I could do," Adam said, as he departed the courthouse. "And that's what I promised the governor, and I delivered everything I possibly could. I put my heart into it. I don't know if anybody could say I didn't do the best I could. I just hope it's good enough!"Adam took jurors through every scenario, arguing that Blagojevich had never intended anything corrupt, and pointing out that in some of the alleged corrupt schemes, he granted everything the aggrieved parties wanted, before representatives ever approached them about campaign cash. For instance, he argued, a tollway expansion was revealed, before the road builders were approached for a massive donation.There was no doubting Adam's emotion for his client, but some observers wondered if his message was literally lost in the shouting, as prosecutors objected dozens of times to what they said were distortions of the testimony."I think the jury wants to hear the facts," said law professor and criminal defense attorney Richard Kling. "They want the lawyer to say what the evidence is, not what the evidence isn't. And I think that's why Judge Zagel sustained a bunch of objections.""I think lawyers assume that closing arguments are more important than they really are," Kling said. "The jurors have the facts. The jurors are going to go back there. I've had juries where I go back to the jury room, and they raise things that I forgot about completely in closing argument. So I don't think they're nearly as important as the lawyers think."Still Adam, gave it his all, insisting on his client's innocence, his naivete, and at times, even suggesting he was something of a dim bulb."As much as I like him, this is a man who considered appointing Oprah Winfrey!" Adam said. "No one's going to say he's the sharpest knife in the drawer."But when it was their turn, the government fired back that Blagojevich was plenty smart, a "practiced communicator" who knew full well what he was saying to underlings in scores of conversations recorded by the FBI."This is one of the great frame-ups of all time," prosecutor Reid Schar declared, mocking the defense's contention of Blagojevich as innocent man. "He is the accidentally corrupt governor!"Schar told the jury that in order for them to believe the former governor, they had to disbelieve a series of witnesses who took the stand and essentially told the same stories."Not only are these people lying, but they somehow manage on the tapes you've heard, to get him to frame himself!"Wednesday, of course, brings what will be, for Blagojevich, the most important day of all. Judge James Zagel will deliver a lengthy series of technical jury instructions, explaining each count of the indictment and telling them what they must decide on each one to find the former governor and his brother Robert guilty.After that, the jurors will retire to the jury room. Zagel will extract the five alternates, designating the panel which will actually deliberate. He will instruct the alternates that they are to remain free of media coverage or discussions of the case, on the off chance that they may still be required to step into deliberations if one of the sitting jurors must leave.It is a process which dates to the first days of the Republic. And it is the process which will determine if Rod Blagojevich, once the most powerful person in Illinois, keeps his freedom. It's Up to the Jury Now... 1 year ago - From www.nbcchicago.com - Comments: 0 nbcchicago nbcchicago: Zagel Gets Hate Mail 1 Lost in the drama of the defense attorney who was almost insisting on going to jail Monday, was Digg a ruling from Judge James Zagel that he would not release the names of jurors in the Blagojevich corruption case until after a verdict is rendered. The Illinois Broadcasters' Association, Illinois Press Association, the Chicago Tribune, and the New York Times, had intervened in the case, arguing that the jurors' names should be revealed immediately, citing the debacle which occurred during the trial of former governor George Ryan, where some jurors were determined to have hidden criminal histories. Zagel based his ruling on concerns that members of the general public, bloggers, and others might attempt to contact the jurors. He also noted that he had told the jurors that he would not reveal their names, and didn't want to betray that trust at this late hour of the trial. He felt he had some legitimate concern about the degree to which some correspondents might attempt to reach parties in the case, including the jury he himself has received some rather unique inquiries. He attached several to his ruling: VOICE MAIL TRANSCRIPT:(expletive) you, Judge Zagel. You (expletive) (expletive) arrogant (expletive) (expletive) mother (expletive). (expletive) you, (expletive) you, James B. Zagel. (expletive) you. LETTER ON COUNTERFEIT WHITE HOUSE LETTERHEAD (postmarked in Cedar Rapids, Iowa)Dear friend Judge Zagel:This is a notice of my president executive powers. I'm giving notice that the Rod Blagojevich trial will be dismissed without further proceedings. Case is permanently closed. That is my executive order, and a non-changeable order at that. Sincerely,Barack Obama LETTER TO ALL JUDGES IN THE FEDERAL BUILDING Dear Judges,I have a judge I think by Blagojevich however I don't have your name. I am IAM, King of Japan and are eager to get to my home and places. I use Selena Erika Nichole Wilson for law. I am told by Gov. Rod Blagojevich to go to the office on Randolph at the Thompson building and get my envelope, he told me what's inside it's my check for the amount $200,000. (the author goes on to explain that when she appeared at the Thompson Center, there was no such envelope) Zagel Gets Hate Mail 1 year ago - From www.nbcchicago.com - Comments: 0 marykate171 marykate171: Judge Zagel advises against defense's closing arguments 1 U.S. District Judge James Zagel ordered Blagojevich lawyers to avoid implying, in their closing Digg arguments, that the prosecution withheld certain witnesses for their own benefit. Blagojevich lawyers reportedly wanted to tell the jury that while... 1 year ago - From www.examiner.com - Comments: 0 WhereTweeting.com marykate171 marykate171: Judge Zagel not likely to grant acquittal in Blago trial 1 U.S. District Judge James Zagel is reportedly dubious about granting former Illinois Governor Digg Rod Blagojevich an acquittal, and is not expected to release the names of jurors in the governor's corruption trial. Yesterday, Zagel said he is... 1 year ago - From www.examiner.com - Comments: 0 huffpolitics huffpolitics: Patti Blagojevich: Indictment Over Rezko Deal Could Be In The Cards 1 The grand jury re-indictment of former Illinois Governor Rod Blagojevich is a 75-page tale of Digg intrigue, corruption, scheming and lies. Many of the cast of characters are mentioned by name; others are hidden under epithets like "Senate Candidate C" or "Deputy Governor A." While Patti Blagojevich's name never appears in the document, "the wife of Rod Blagojevich" figures prominently in one facet of the alleged corruption. Specifically, the indictment alleges that real estate developer Tony Rezko paid Mrs. Blagojevich $12,000 a month while she provided "few, if any, services" to his company. Yesterday, the defense argued that these claims should be dismissed. But the judge's response, coupled with an item in the very well-connected Michael Sneed's column on Thursday, suggest that Patti Blagojevich may not be out of the woods. Judge James Zagel, who is presiding over Rod Blagojevich's corruption trial, was asked by defense attorney Shelly Sorosky to remove allegations related to Patti from the indictment. Sorosky argued that Patti had done work for Rezko's company, and that there was no proof that Rezko ever benefited from having the governor's wife on the payroll. To counter this latter point, Zagel conjured an example from Chicago's seedy history: the Everleigh sisters, madames at a glamorous brothel in the early 20th century. The sisters were known to have paid the Chicago police to turn a blind eye to their business. From the Chicago Sun-Times' "Blago Blog": "I think that that would constitute bribery, even though you might not be able to point to a single specific action or inaction taken by those police officers," Zagel explains. "It might be bribery over a dozen years. Here, hypothetically, six years. ... It's still a bribe, even though it's very difficult to point to what the quo was for the quid." "I think you're construing it too narrowly," the judge tells the defense. In Sneed's Sun-Timescolumnshe raised a few questions: Is former first lady Patti Blagojevich still in the line of fire? Is there fear her real estate dealings with Tony Rezko fall within the realm of indictability? Stay tuned. The questions Sneed poses are worth considering. If Judge Zagel is so confident that the defense is wrong to try getting Patti off the hook -- and worse yet, if Rod is convicted of the Patti-related charge -- that seems to point pretty strongly to some wrongdoing on the ex-First Lady's part. The only question is, can the government mount sufficient evidence to bring Mrs. Blagojevich to trial as well? The bit from Sneed, who Rich Miller at the Capitol Fax describes as having "the best sources in the business" among federal prosecutors, suggests they might be moving in that direction. So far, though, no official word that any such charges are in the works. Patti Blagojevich: Indictment Over Rezko Deal Could Be In The Cards 1 year ago - From www.huffingtonpost.com - Comments: 0 nbcchicago nbcchicago: Blagojevich Attorney is "Big Believer in Repetition", Says Judge 1 Judge James Zagel said this morning he was "unpersuaded" by Rod Blagojevich's motion to have all Digg charges dismissed in his criminal case. Such motions, known as requests for a directed verdict of acquittal, are rarely granted.Attorneys for Blagojevich argued that The former governor's so-called false statements to the FBI were ambiguous at worst; that Patti Blagojevich worked for every penny she made and her fees were reasonable; and that much of what the former governor said on undercover tapes amounted to protected free speech.Prosecutor Carrie Hamilton fired back that Patti did no work for Tony Rezko, and that the monthly fees kicked in exactly at the time Rezko began receiving massive illegal kickbacks himself; she said Blagojevich's comment that he had a "firewall" in his office between politics and government was hardly ambiguous.The judge refused to grant the defense motion, but said he would keep it on the side until after closing arguments.Those arguments commence first thing Monday morning. Prosecutor Chris Niewoehner will go first and will get 2 and a half hours; Michael Ettinger will get one hour speaking for Robert Blagojevich; attorney Sam Adam Jr. wilk take 2 and a take hours speaking for Rod Blagojevich; and prosecutor Reid Schar will close things out with a one hour argument for the government.Judge Zagel expressed skepticism that the flamboyant Sam Adam Jr, would keep to his allotted time. When told of the estimate of two and a half hours, he raised his eyebrows and said, "You think it's that small?"Zagel said it was his experience that Adam is a " big believer in the force of repitition." Blagojevich Attorney is 1 year ago - From www.nbcchicago.com - Comments: 0 nbcchicago nbcchicago: Why the Jury Needs to Be Shielded From the Press 1 Long before the first witness took the stand in the Rod Blagojevich corruption trial, Judge Digg James Zagel announced that he would not be revealing the names of the jurors who would sit in judgment. The news media filed a motion for the names to be released, and the judge denied it. But the Court of Appeals said the judge should at least hold a hearing on the matter, and that hearing has now been set for July 23. Zagel Wednesday laid out some of his rationale for keeping the jurors' names under wraps. First, Zagel suggests as he did in open court earlier this week, that he made a commitment to the jurors and believes he needs to keep it. "Jurors understand that opposing lawyers are advocates," he writes. "The only person in the court who is perceived as neutral, and therefore, fully reliable, is the judge." Zagel says jurors traditionally see the judge as their protector, and that such a fact should not be lost now. The judge expands on his fear that if the names are released, inexperienced would-be journalists (read: bloggers) would attempt to contact them, as might members of the public. As he described briefly from the bench, he noted that he has himself received communications from the public about the case, and that one voice message included facts which were, as he put it, "incredible." Another, he said, included profanity and an insult. "While messages in this latter category may be relatively common for judges to receive, such communications from strangers to the ordinary citizen would most likely be frightening." He expresses further fear that with the advent of sites such as Facebook, jurors might be easily contacted by total strangers. "An opinionated member of the public need only learn a juror's name and search for that juror on Facebook in order to send him or her unsolicited messages," Zagel writes. Media attorneys suggest the matter needs to be resolved sooner rather than later. The trial is moving at unexpected speed, and the matter would be rendered moot if not resolved by the time deliberations begin. Why the Jury Needs to Be Shielded From the Press 1 year ago - From www.nbcchicago.com - Comments: 0 marykate171 marykate171: Judge Zagel discusses emails he received re: Blago trial 1 At a hearing today about the privacy of jurors' identities , U.S. District Judge James Zagel Digg discussed emails and letters that he received regarding the Blagojevich trial. These correspondences touched on the jurors, citizens' hopes for... 1 year ago - From www.examiner.com - Comments: 0 nbcchicago nbcchicago: 60 Objections ... and Counting 1 After a lengthy period where prosecutors raised, and judge James Zagel sustained, one objection Digg after another, the judge took a recess and ordered defense attorney Aaron Goldstein to stop his line of questioning.Goldstein was attempting to explore the effort, or lack thereof, to offer Lisa Madigan the senate seat in exchange for Mike Madigan's acquiescence on pending legislation. Witness Bob Greenlee, however, would not budge in his contention that the matter was never pursued.After a score of objections, and with the jury safely out of the room, a weary judge Zagel lowered the hammer."It might help if you told me what you were trying to do," the exasperated judge said. Rejecting Goldstein's explanation, he said, "I'm not going to let you do it any more. It's just a waste of time."Goldstein is at over 60 objections for the day. 60 Objections ... and Counting 1 year ago - From www.nbcchicago.com - Comments: 0 msjournalist msjournalist: Blagojustice: Recap first 10 days/Blagojevich Trial/Everythi 1 What you need to know from the first 10 days: That Judge Zagel Judge Zagel is very skilled, Digg no-nonsense judge who's observations and sense of humor are worth sitting there all day to observe (see day 2 and 3 of this blog for more) The jury is made u of 11 females, 7 males, 4 African-american and 1 Asian. For the most part, so far they have been ext Blagojustice: Recap first 10 days/Blagojevich Trial/Everythi 1 year ago - From www.blagojustice.com - Comments: 0 msjournalist msjournalist: Blagojustice: Day 18/Blagojevich trial/ A Governor can never 1 The trial is ahead of schedule, and Judge Zagel said at the end of the day that the Defense Digg may begin their case the week after next. The Judge addressed the lawyers at the end of the day and suggested to the Defense that much of what he has seen in the way of tapes to submit appears to be "hearsay and inadmissible." Judge suggested that Blagojustice: Day 18/Blagojevich trial/ A Governor can never 1 year ago - From www.blagojustice.com - Comments: 0 nbcchicago nbcchicago: Blago Trial: Daily Journal 6/30 1 external external external external external">external external external external Digg external">Follow the Ward Room twitter feed, with action from inside the courtroom. What to expect today: Blago's former campaign communications chief Doug Scofield will continue testifying. More from the infamous "F***ing Golden" tapes.10:15 amOn the morning after Barack Obama was elected President, Rod Blagojevich was depressed."The President of the United States is someone I know, but I'm in a bad place," he says. "I feel like I failed."Talking to political advisor Doug Scofield, Blagojevich laments what might have been."There's nothing I coulda done about Obama, nothing right? Keep him from speaking at the convention... I mean you've got this historic (EXPLETIVE) demigod!"Scofield said Blagojevich saw Obama's success as only limiting his further Presidential aspirations. At one point the governor says that had he run, he would have been only "one more white guy in Iowa.""There was a level of jealousy and anger," Scofield said.Still, on the undercover tape, Blagojevich tried to look on the bright side."My upward mobility doesn't look so good right now," he says. "But it's a funny business. "11:10 amIn a conversation Nov. 7, 2008, Rod Blagojevich tells advisor Doug Scofield that the Senate seat can go to Jarrett, if she gives him what he wants."Tell her she can be Senator, the governor can appoint her, under the right certain conditions."Blagojevich wants a cabinet position."She's holding Health and Human Services and I'm holding a US Senate seat," he says. "She's holding hers with two hands. Me, I've got the whole thing wrapped around my arms. I'm willing to trade the thing I have tightly held to her, for something she doesn't hold so tight!""Gotta think I could at least be ambassador to Macedonia now!"11:35 amIn a conversation with advisor Doug Scofield from Nov. 10, 2008:"I get nothing out of Valerie Jarrett. They are not going to give anything!""What about Patti on some corporate boards, paid corporate boards--could you help me that way," he proposes they say. "You know a couplea corporate boards, pick up another 150 grand a year!""If they think they can do this and not (EXPLETIVE) give me anything other than some vague assurances, I'll go (EXPLETIVE) Jesse Junior! The arrogance of these (EXPLETIVE) people!"12:30 pmNovember 11: Blagojevich floats his Louanner Peters idea again, this time to Scofield. "If I get nothing back from Obama, then I'm going in another direction. I mean, what if I get impeached next year? And the storm clouds get serious? I can say I've gotta catapult outa here. I need that Senate seat!"Blagojevich speculates also about creating a non-profit advocacy group where he would go work. He tells Scofield he is thinking of asking Chicago billionaire JB Pritzker to help him fund it, in exchange for naming Pritzker to the Senate seat. He speaks of needing $10-15 million.2:25 pmBlagojevich says, in a call from Nov. 13, that he knows appointing himself Senator would not be popular with the new President."I believe their worst nightmare is me!" he says. "They wanta keep Rezko a million miles away!"5:00 pmJudge Zagel says that the honest services ruling could affect one count against Blagojevich, but the evidence will stay in.Meanwhile, the defense attempted to demonstrate that aide Doug Scofield encouraged Blagojevich and helped him, but wasn't himself charged. Wednesday Morning Blagojevich Coverage:Bill Brady says he won't spend as much as Blagojevich to win the Governorship. [Chicago Tribune]Obama's name keeps coming up at trial. [Fox News]Blagojevich didn't think much about Alexi Giannoulias. [Sun-Times]... He didn't like reporter Carol Marin much either. [Ward Room]Previous Journals: Tuesday, June 29 Journal -- Tom Balanof talks about Valerie JarrettMonday, June 28 Journal -- "She's a Kingmaker"*** WEEK THREE ***Thursday, June 24 Journal -- "Appreciation? F*** them!"Wednesday, June 23 Journal -- The Prince of Darkness EmergesTuesday, June 22 Journal -- Strategizing for a Senate DealMonday, June 21 Journal -- Track Owner Johnston Testifies*** WEEK TWO ***Thursday, June 17 Journal -- Ali Ata Takes the StandWednesday, June 16 Journal -- Joseph Cari Talks Tuesday, June 15 Journal -- Adam Calls Monk a LiarMonday, June 14 Journal -- Monk's Cross Exam Begins*** WEEK ONE ***Thursday, June 10 Journal -- Monk's Cash DealWednesday, June 9 Journal -- First WitnessesTuesday, June 8 Journal -- Opening Statements Blago Trial: Daily Journal 6/30 1 year ago - From www.nbcchicago.com - Comments: 0 nbcchicago nbcchicago: Blago Trial: Daily Journal 7/1 1 external external external external external external">external external external external Digg external external" href="http://twitter.com/ward_room" target="_blank">Follow the Ward Room twitter feed, with action from inside the courtroom. What to expect today: The defense filed three separate mistrial motions Wednesday. All of them relate to how Judge Zagel has treated the defense team. Zagel will likely address the mistrial motions today. Also, the prosecution will redirect questioning of former Blagojevich adviser Doug Scofield after the defense questioned him Wednesday. Thursday Morning Blagojevich Coverage:Is Blago blow back headed toward the White House? [Time Magazine]Tapes reveal Rod is a master of curse words. [Illinois Statehouse News]Beware the "yes men" [Chicago Tribune]Honest services could have a small impact on the trial. [Ward Room]Previous Journals:Wednesday, June 30 Journal -- Scofield's ScapegoatTuesday, June 29 Journal -- Tom Balanoff talks about Valerie JarrettMonday, June 28 Journal -- "She's a Kingmaker"*** WEEK THREE ***Thursday, June 24 Journal -- "Appreciation? F*** them!"Wednesday, June 23 Journal -- The Prince of Darkness EmergesTuesday, June 22 Journal -- Strategizing for a Senate DealMonday, June 21 Journal -- Track Owner Johnston Testifies*** WEEK TWO ***Thursday, June 17 Journal -- Ali Ata Takes the StandWednesday, June 16 Journal -- Joseph Cari Talks Tuesday, June 15 Journal -- Adam Calls Monk a LiarMonday, June 14 Journal -- Monk's Cross Exam Begins*** WEEK ONE ***Thursday, June 10 Journal -- Monk's Cash DealWednesday, June 9 Journal -- First WitnessesTuesday, June 8 Journal -- Opening Statements Blago Trial: Daily Journal 7/1 1 year ago - From www.nbcchicago.com - Comments: 0 nbcchicago nbcchicago: Blago Trial: Daily Journal 6/28 1 Follow the Ward Room twitter feed, with action from inside the courtroom.What to expect today: Digg The defense gets a shot at cross-examining Blago's former chief of staff John Harris. Harris spent four days testifying for the prosecution about Blagojevich's desire to get himself a job in exchange for appointing Valerie Jarrett to Obama's vacant senate seat.The defense will spend the better part of two days poking holes in Harris's testimony. Once the defense is finished with Harris, the prosecution will call Tom Balanoff, a union official who Blagojevich believed was an Obama emissary.9:00 amAttorneys for former governor Blagojevich">Blagojevich" href="http://www.nbcchicago.com/topics?topic=Rod+Blagojevich">Rod Blagojevich demanded a mistrial this morning, citing last week's Supreme Court ruling striking down portions of the so-called Honest Services statute.The lawyers say in their motion that not only should the honest services counts against Blagojevich be thrown out, but the entire case should now be halted, because a defendant has a right to know the charges he is facing before trial.Last week, judge Zagel">Zagel" href="http://www.nbcchicago.com/topics?topic=James+Zagel">James Zagel declared from the bench that his own cursory reading of the high court's decision indicated it would have little, if any, impact on the former governor's case.10:15 am Nov 21, 2008, Rod Blagojevich wondered aloud about the possibility of appointing Oprah Winfrey to the Barack Obama senate seat."She's a kingmaker!" he says. "She made Obama!""Nobody would assail this pick," he says. "It's huge!""Oprah is not far-fetched," Blagojevich contends. Then he concedes, "The odds of her f----ing taking it are slim to none."Blagojevich makes clear that he wants to appoint an African-American, but can't decide on a candidate he likes. He encourages chief of staff John Harris to look into Melody Spann Cooper of WVON radio, and Linda Johnson Rice of Johnson Publishing.He makes clear he doesn't want to pick Jesse Jackson, Jr."I don't want to create an opportunity for him in two years!"Through it all, even though he says Harris should find him a real "Mother Teresa type," Blagojevich keeps returning to Oprah."There's nothing affirmative action about her!"10:48 amIn a tape from December 4, 2008, Rod Blagojevich warms to the idea of appointing Jesse Jackson, Jr. to the Obama Senate seat.Jesse Jackson, UBER African-American!" Blagojevich declares, noting that the appointment might help to stave off a possible gubernatorial challenge from State Sen. James Meeks."He's come to me through third parties with offers of campaign contributions and help," Blagojevich says. "$1.5 million!"...Blagojevich, however, flies into a rage when Harris mentions the possibility of appointing former press secretary Cheryl Jackson. "Cheryl Jackson, no f---ing way!" he says. "She's so f---ing incompetent and a f---ing liar!"Jackson left the Blagojevich administration to head up the Chicago Urban League.Harris said Jackson once bounced a check to the Blagojevich campaign.11:01 amThe prosecution finishes quesitoning Harris.Just before the prosecution finished questioning Harris, he testified about a meeting between Blagojevich and Jesse Jackson, Jr. Harris says Jackson gave Blagojevich a 3-ring binder highlighting his legislative record and asking for the appointment.He said after Blagojevich read the last tab of the binder he looked up and said, "Well I'm glad somebody's thinkimg about me and how they can help me!"The defense will begin its cross examination. 11:30 amCross examination of John harris has begun - starting with Robert's attorneys.Rod's defense is not paying real close attention, rather scouring through dozens of legal pads full of notes.Robert is looking intently at Harris, while rocking back and forth in his chair. Rod is sitting patiently with his head tilted slighty to the left. Patti, sitting in the front row by herself, keeps sneaking lifesavers breath mints into her mouth and spent some time looking through the calender on her phone.This cross is rather boring in comparison to the theatrical antics of Rod's team.12:30 pmCheck that: Blago's defense is likewise boring. Sam Adam is taking Harris through a litany of names that have appeared in the trial log. Proving very tedious.2:20 pmThe cross examination is going very slowly. Judge Zagel has sustained 27 objections against Sam Adam Sr.'s questions since lunch alone.3:30 p.m.On cross examination, defense lawyer Sam Adam tried to portray the former governor as a guy who blusters snoot and blows off steam. He declared that Blagojevich would do that when he got upset, then settle down, and he asked John Harris if that wasn't what was going on in the alleged attempt to get the Tribune editorial board fired."On this particular subject, he persisted," Harris said.4:20 p.m.John Harris testifies on cross examination that he told Senate President Emil Jones he would be Rod Blagojevich's first pick for the Obama senate seat, at least in part to keep him happy should the General Assembly pursue impeachment.4:45 p.m.Harris agreed that Blagojevich was hoping, through appointing Lisa Madigan as Senator, to get a package of legislation through the House. That package would have included expanded health care, a capital construction plan, no tax increase, and a promise not to impeach the governor.Defense lawyer Sam Adam said, "Did the governor say to you, that he hated the idea of appointing Lisa Madigan but if it's good for the people of Illinois I'll hold my nose and do it.""Yes," said Harris. But he said he didn't think it was feasible.Monday Morning Blagojevich Coverage: Giannoulais gets the call. [NBCChicago]The sad, sad story of Alonzo Monk. [Southtown Star]A week of Blago recap. [Sun-Times]Blagojevich is more of a Chicago thing. [Ward Room]Previous Journals: Thursday, June 24 Journal -- "Appreciation? F*** them!"Wednesday, June 23 Journal -- The Prince of Darkness EmergesTuesday, June 22 Journal -- Strategizing for a Senate DealMonday, June 21 Journal -- Track Owner Johnston TestifiesThursday, June 17 Journal -- Ali Ata Takes the StandWednesday, June 16 Journal -- Joseph Cari Talks Tuesday, June 15 Journal -- Adam Calls Monk a LiarMonday, June 14 Journal -- Monk's Cross Exam BeginsThursday, June 10 Journal -- Monk's Cash DealWednesday, June 9 Journal -- First WitnessesTuesday, June 8 Journal -- Opening Statements Sam Adam is going thru a litany of every name which has come up at the trial...in cross examining Harris. Very slow. Tedious.The cross examination is going very slowly. Judge Zagel has sustained 27 objections against Sam Adam Sr.'s questions since lunch alone. Blago Trial: Daily Journal 6/28 1 year ago - From www.nbcchicago.com - Comments: 0 nbcchicago nbcchicago: Blago Trial: Daily Journal 6/28 1 Follow the Ward Room twitter feed, with action from inside the courtroom.What to expect today: Digg The defense gets a shot at cross-examining Blago's former chief of staff John Harris. Harris spent four days testifying for the prosecution about Blagojevich's desire to get himself a job in exchange for appointing Valerie Jarrett to Obama's vacant senate seat.The defense will spend the better part of two days poking holes in Harris's testimony. Once the defense is finished with Harris, the prosecution will call Tom Balanoff, a union official who Blagojevich believed was an Obama emissary.9:00 amAttorneys for former governor Blagojevich">Blagojevich" href="http://www.nbcchicago.com/topics?topic=Rod+Blagojevich">Rod Blagojevich demanded a mistrial this morning, citing last week's Supreme Court ruling striking down portions of the so-called Honest Services statute.The lawyers say in their motion that not only should the honest services counts against Blagojevich be thrown out, but the entire case should now be halted, because a defendant has a right to know the charges he is facing before trial.Last week, judge Zagel">Zagel" href="http://www.nbcchicago.com/topics?topic=James+Zagel">James Zagel declared from the bench that his own cursory reading of the high court's decision indicated it would have little, if any, impact on the former governor's case.10:15 am Nov 21, 2008, Rod Blagojevich wondered aloud about the possibility of appointing Oprah Winfrey to the Barack Obama senate seat."She's a kingmaker!" he says. "She made Obama!""Nobody would assail this pick," he says. "It's huge!""Oprah is not far-fetched," Blagojevich contends. Then he concedes, "The odds of her f----ing taking it are slim to none."Blagojevich makes clear that he wants to appoint an African-American, but can't decide on a candidate he likes. He encourages chief of staff John Harris to look into Melody Spann Cooper of WVON radio, and Linda Johnson Rice of Johnson Publishing.He makes clear he doesn't want to pick Jesse Jackson, Jr."I don't want to create an opportunity for him in two years!"Through it all, even though he says Harris should find him a real "Mother Teresa type," Blagojevich keeps returning to Oprah."There's nothing affirmative action about her!"10:48 amIn a tape from December 4, 2008, Rod Blagojevich warms to the idea of appointing Jesse Jackson, Jr. to the Obama Senate seat.Jesse Jackson, UBER African-American!" Blagojevich declares, noting that the appointment might help to stave off a possible gubernatorial challenge from State Sen. James Meeks."He's come to me through third parties with offers of campaign contributions and help," Blagojevich says. "$1.5 million!"...Blagojevich, however, flies into a rage when Harris mentions the possibility of appointing former press secretary Cheryl Jackson. "Cheryl Jackson, no f---ing way!" he says. "She's so f---ing incompetent and a f---ing liar!"Jackson left the Blagojevich administration to head up the Chicago Urban League.Harris said Jackson once bounced a check to the Blagojevich campaign.11:01 amThe prosecution finishes quesitoning Harris.Just before the prosecution finished questioning Harris, he testified about a meeting between Blagojevich and Jesse Jackson, Jr. Harris says Jackson gave Blagojevich a 3-ring binder highlighting his legislative record and asking for the appointment.He said after Blagojevich read the last tab of the binder he looked up and said, "Well I'm glad somebody's thinkimg about me and how they can help me!"The defense will begin its cross examination. 11:30 amCross examination of John harris has begun - starting with Robert's attorneys.Rod's defense is not paying real close attention, rather scouring through dozens of legal pads full of notes.Robert is looking intently at Harris, while rocking back and forth in his chair. Rod is sitting patiently with his head tilted slighty to the left. Patti, sitting in the front row by herself, keeps sneaking lifesavers breath mints into her mouth and spent some time looking through the calender on her phone.This cross is rather boring in comparison to the theatrical antics of Rod's team.12:30 pmCheck that: Blago's defense is likewise boring. Sam Adam is taking Harris through a litany of names that have appeared in the trial log. Proving very tedious.2:20 pmThe cross examination is going very slowly. Judge Zagel has sustained 27 objections against Sam Adam Sr.'s questions since lunch alone.3:30 p.m.On cross examination, defense lawyer Sam Adam tried to portray the former governor as a guy who blusters snoot and blows off steam. He declared that Blagojevich would do that when he got upset, then settle down, and he asked John Harris if that wasn't what was going on in the alleged attempt to get the Tribune editorial board fired."On this particular subject, he persisted," Harris said.4:20 p.m.John Harris testifies on cross examination that he told Senate President Emil Jones he would be Rod Blagojevich's first pick for the Obama senate seat, at least in part to keep him happy should the General Assembly pursue impeachment.4:45 p.m.Harris agreed that Blagojevich was hoping, through appointing Lisa Madigan as Senator, to get a package of legislation through the House. That package would have included expanded health care, a capital construction plan, no tax increase, and a promise not to impeach the governor.Defense lawyer Sam Adam said, "Did the governor say to you, that he hated the idea of appointing Lisa Madigan but if it's good for the people of Illinois I'll hold my nose and do it.""Yes," said Harris. But he said he didn't think it was feasible.Monday Morning Blagojevich Coverage: Giannoulais gets the call. [NBCChicago]The sad, sad story of Alonzo Monk. [Southtown Star]A week of Blago recap. [Sun-Times]Blagojevich is more of a Chicago thing. [Ward Room]Previous Journals: Thursday, June 24 Journal -- "Appreciation? F*** them!"Wednesday, June 23 Journal -- The Prince of Darkness EmergesTuesday, June 22 Journal -- Strategizing for a Senate DealMonday, June 21 Journal -- Track Owner Johnston TestifiesThursday, June 17 Journal -- Ali Ata Takes the StandWednesday, June 16 Journal -- Joseph Cari Talks Tuesday, June 15 Journal -- Adam Calls Monk a LiarMonday, June 14 Journal -- Monk's Cross Exam BeginsThursday, June 10 Journal -- Monk's Cash DealWednesday, June 9 Journal -- First WitnessesTuesday, June 8 Journal -- Opening Statements Sam Adam is going thru a litany of every name which has come up at the trial...in cross examining Harris. Very slow. Tedious.The cross examination is going very slowly. Judge Zagel has sustained 27 objections against Sam Adam Sr.'s questions since lunch alone. Blago Trial: Daily Journal 6/28 1 year ago - From www.nbcchicago.com - Comments: 0 nbcchicago nbcchicago: Blago Trial: Daily Journal 6/28 1 Follow the Ward Room twitter feed, with action from inside the courtroom.What to expect today: Digg The defense gets a shot at cross-examining Blago's former chief of staff John Harris. Harris spent four days testifying for the prosecution about Blagojevich's desire to get himself a job in exchange for appointing Valerie Jarrett to Obama's vacant senate seat.The defense will spend the better part of two days poking holes in Harris's testimony. Once the defense is finished with Harris, the prosecution will call Tom Balanoff, a union official who Blagojevich believed was an Obama emissary.9:00 amAttorneys for former governor Blagojevich">Blagojevich" href="http://www.nbcchicago.com/topics?topic=Rod+Blagojevich">Rod Blagojevich demanded a mistrial this morning, citing last week's Supreme Court ruling striking down portions of the so-called Honest Services statute.The lawyers say in their motion that not only should the honest services counts against Blagojevich be thrown out, but the entire case should now be halted, because a defendant has a right to know the charges he is facing before trial.Last week, judge Zagel">Zagel" href="http://www.nbcchicago.com/topics?topic=James+Zagel">James Zagel declared from the bench that his own cursory reading of the high court's decision indicated it would have little, if any, impact on the former governor's case.10:15 am Nov 21, 2008, Rod Blagojevich wondered aloud about the possibility of appointing Oprah Winfrey to the Barack Obama senate seat."She's a kingmaker!" he says. "She made Obama!""Nobody would assail this pick," he says. "It's huge!""Oprah is not far-fetched," Blagojevich contends. Then he concedes, "The odds of her f----ing taking it are slim to none."Blagojevich makes clear that he wants to appoint an African-American, but can't decide on a candidate he likes. He encourages chief of staff John Harris to look into Melody Spann Cooper of WVON radio, and Linda Johnson Rice of Johnson Publishing.He makes clear he doesn't want to pick Jesse Jackson, Jr."I don't want to create an opportunity for him in two years!"Through it all, even though he says Harris should find him a real "Mother Teresa type," Blagojevich keeps returning to Oprah."There's nothing affirmative action about her!"10:48 amIn a tape from December 4, 2008, Rod Blagojevich warms to the idea of appointing Jesse Jackson, Jr. to the Obama Senate seat.Jesse Jackson, UBER African-American!" Blagojevich declares, noting that the appointment might help to stave off a possible gubernatorial challenge from State Sen. James Meeks."He's come to me through third parties with offers of campaign contributions and help," Blagojevich says. "$1.5 million!"...Blagojevich, however, flies into a rage when Harris mentions the possibility of appointing former press secretary Cheryl Jackson. "Cheryl Jackson, no f---ing way!" he says. "She's so f---ing incompetent and a f---ing liar!"Jackson left the Blagojevich administration to head up the Chicago Urban League.Harris said Jackson once bounced a check to the Blagojevich campaign.11:01 amThe prosecution finishes quesitoning Harris.Just before the prosecution finished questioning Harris, he testified about a meeting between Blagojevich and Jesse Jackson, Jr. Harris says Jackson gave Blagojevich a 3-ring binder highlighting his legislative record and asking for the appointment.He said after Blagojevich read the last tab of the binder he looked up and said, "Well I'm glad somebody's thinkimg about me and how they can help me!"The defense will begin its cross examination. 11:30 amCross examination of John harris has begun - starting with Robert's attorneys.Rod's defense is not paying real close attention, rather scouring through dozens of legal pads full of notes.Robert is looking intently at Harris, while rocking back and forth in his chair. Rod is sitting patiently with his head tilted slighty to the left. Patti, sitting in the front row by herself, keeps sneaking lifesavers breath mints into her mouth and spent some time looking through the calender on her phone.This cross is rather boring in comparison to the theatrical antics of Rod's team.12:30 pmCheck that: Blago's defense is likewise boring. Sam Adam is taking Harris through a litany of names that have appeared in the trial log. Proving very tedious.2:20 pmThe cross examination is going very slowly. Judge Zagel has sustained 27 objections against Sam Adam Sr.'s questions since lunch alone.3:30 p.m.On cross examination, defense lawyer Sam Adam tried to portray the former governor as a guy who blusters snoot and blows off steam. He declared that Blagojevich would do that when he got upset, then settle down, and he asked John Harris if that wasn't what was going on in the alleged attempt to get the Tribune editorial board fired."On this particular subject, he persisted," Harris said.4:20 p.m.John Harris testifies on cross examination that he told Senate President Emil Jones he would be Rod Blagojevich's first pick for the Obama senate seat, at least in part to keep him happy should the General Assembly pursue impeachment.4:45 p.m.Harris agreed that Blagojevich was hoping, through appointing Lisa Madigan as Senator, to get a package of legislation through the House. That package would have included expanded health care, a capital construction plan, no tax increase, and a promise not to impeach the governor.Defense lawyer Sam Adam said, "Did the governor say to you, that he hated the idea of appointing Lisa Madigan but if it's good for the people of Illinois I'll hold my nose and do it.""Yes," said Harris. But he said he didn't think it was feasible.Monday Morning Blagojevich Coverage: Giannoulais gets the call. [NBCChicago]The sad, sad story of Alonzo Monk. [Southtown Star]A week of Blago recap. [Sun-Times]Blagojevich is more of a Chicago thing. [Ward Room]Previous Journals: Thursday, June 24 Journal -- "Appreciation? F*** them!"Wednesday, June 23 Journal -- The Prince of Darkness EmergesTuesday, June 22 Journal -- Strategizing for a Senate DealMonday, June 21 Journal -- Track Owner Johnston TestifiesThursday, June 17 Journal -- Ali Ata Takes the StandWednesday, June 16 Journal -- Joseph Cari Talks Tuesday, June 15 Journal -- Adam Calls Monk a LiarMonday, June 14 Journal -- Monk's Cross Exam BeginsThursday, June 10 Journal -- Monk's Cash DealWednesday, June 9 Journal -- First WitnessesTuesday, June 8 Journal -- Opening Statements Sam Adam is going thru a litany of every name which has come up at the trial...in cross examining Harris. Very slow. Tedious.The cross examination is going very slowly. Judge Zagel has sustained 27 objections against Sam Adam Sr.'s questions since lunch alone. Blago Trial: Daily Journal 6/28 1 year ago - From www.nbcchicago.com - Comments: 0 buzzycat buzzycat: Blagojevich Trial: A Mistrial Before It Even Begins? 1 Has Judge Zagel erred? Lawyers for Blagojevich contend that judge began jury selection process Digg without defendant or legal team present. A violation of his rights. Is it enough for a mistrial? Blago who has contended that he is looking forward to his day in court sure has tried hard to avoid it. 1 year ago - From www.chicagonow.com - Comments: 0 stonetsr stonetsr: I'm Begging you Judge Zagel, Let Blago go to Costa Rica 52 All that stands between former Illinois Governor Rod Blagojevich and a chance at reality Digg television stardom is a judge named James B. Zagel. Blago's bond prevents him from leaving the country, but he's asking Zagel for permission to head to Costa Rica in June in order to shoot a new reality show - I say please Your Honor, let him go! 2 years ago - From stonecipher.typepad.com - Comments: 1 Made by Michael (Yiming) Q (c)2011 - 2012