Today's Fumo trial docket: More prosecution witnesses

Inquirer Staff Writer Emilie Lounsberry reports:

With the corruption trial of former State Sen. Vincent J. Fumo wrapping up its seventh week today, federal prosecutors are poised to call more witnesses today to testify about trips, equipment and other items paid for by a charity for Fumo's benefit.

Yesterday, the jury heard board members from Citizens' Alliance for Better Neighborhoods say they never gave advance approval for all kinds of purchases paid for by the nonprofit.

Not for the luxury vehicles he used. Or the lawsuit initiated against one of his political foes. Or the political polling done at his behest.

Today, the jury is expected to hear from witnesses about trips to Cuba, a painting of the historic ship Gazella and the $27,000 bulldozer that ended up at Fumo's farm outside Harrisburg — and all allegedly paid for by Citzens' Alliance.
The jury of 10 women and two men — plus three alternates — has seemed intent as a parade of witnesses testified about this part of the case, which poses some of the toughest challenges for Fumo's defense team.

The trial is unfolding before U.S. District Judge Ronald L. Buckwalter — and it's chugging along. The prosecution could rest by early January.

Contact staff writer Emilie Lounsberry at 215-854-4828 or at elounsberry@phillynews.com.

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