Federal prosecutors and defense attorneys made their opening statements in the trial of David H. Safavian, a former Bush administration official accused lying about his relationship with Jack Abramoff.
Prosecutors said Safavian covered up Abramoff's lobbying efforts. But the defense said Safavian is guilty only of being Abramoff's friend. E-mails being presented to the jury highlight the close dealings the two men had.
The government called two witnesses: Safavian's former supervisor at the General Services Administration and a current GSA official. Both testified about federal properties Abramoff was interested in securing, possibly with Safavian's help.
The trial resumes today and could last up to two weeks. A former Abramoff associate who pleaded guilty and is cooperating with the investigation is expected to testify against Abramoff about the lobbying for the federal properties.
Get the Story:Safavian Lied About Dealings With Abramoff, Prosecutor Says (The Washington Post 5/25)
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At Trial of an Ex-White House Aide, an Admission and a Denial (The New York Times 5/25)
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Safavian attorney seeks to discredit former Ney aide (The Hill 5/25)
The Washington friendship (Salon 5/25) NOte: Watch ad to view story for free.
Abramoff-linked trial opens for Bush aide (AP 5/25)
E-mail a factor in case against former Bush official (CNET 5/24)
Trial of former procurement chief begins (Government Executive News 5/24) Recent Court Decisions:
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