RICHMOND, Va. (AP) – Closing arguments have started in the public corruption trial of former Virginia Gov. Bob McDonnell and his wife, Maureen.
The McDonnells are charged in a 14-count indictment with accepting more than $165,000 in gifts and loans from businessman Jonnie Williams. Prosecutors say the couple took the gifts in exchange for promoting Williams’ tobacco-derived anti-inflammatory Anatabloc.
Friday marks the 25th day of a trial. McDonnell testified in his own defense and said he did nothing illegal. He said the couple extended courtesies to Williams like any other elected official would. His wife didn’t take the stand.
Williams, the prosecution’s star witness, testified under immunity that he spent lavishly on the McDonnells only to secure their help.
The McDonnells could face decades in prison if convicted.