John Edwards Trial Set To Begin (Huffington post)
* Prosecutors say more than $900,000 in campaign funds illegal
* Money used to cover up affair, pregnancy of mistress
* Edwards was married 2008 Democratic presidential hopeful
By Colleen Jenkins
WINSTON-SALEM, N.C., April 22 (Reuters) – Former U.S. Senator John Edwards
goes on trial Monday on charges he used illegal campaign contributions to
cover up an affair with a mistress who became pregnant during his failed bid
for the 2008 Democratic presidential nomination.
Edwards is accused of accepting more than $900,000 in campaign funds from two
wealthy donors, knowing the exposure of his extramarital affair “would destroy
his presidential campaign,” prosecutors said in a trial brief.
The candidate at the time was a married father of three, whose late wife,
Elizabeth, had breast cancer.
Jurors will hear opening statements the federal courthouse in Greensboro,
North Carolina.
Edwards, 58, is accused of conspiring to solicit the money, receiving more
than the $2,300 allowed from any one donor, and failing to report the payments
as contributions.
He faces six felony counts, each carrying a sentence of up to five years in
prison and a $250,000 fine.
Edwards admits personal failings but insists he broke no laws.
Edwards’ defenders say the government is …
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