Defense rests in Bruno trial; deliberations likely to begin Monday

ALBANY -- The defense in the trial of former Senate Majority Leader Joe Bruno has rested in a stunningly speedy argument for their case.

Pending one witness who is out of town, the defense has wrapped -- starting and finishing in one afternoon. 

The jury is expected to begin deliberating Monday afternoon.

Joe Bruno himself will not testify in his own defense.

ALBANY, N.Y. -- Prosecutors have ended their case against former New York Senate leader Joseph Bruno with testimony from a friend and business associate who says he hired the longtime Republican lawmaker as a consultant for his contacts and the credibility he lent.

Bruno is accused of using his state influence to enrich himself and deny New Yorkers his honest services. He faces eight fraud counts.

Technology investor Jared Abbruzzese testified Friday that Bruno first approached him about consulting in early 2004. He says Bruno was paid $20,000 a month for almost two years.

The defense presented a handful of witnesses who testified about Bruno's integrity.

The case is expected to reach the jury Monday. 

(Copyright 2009 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)

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