What's next for Patti, Gov.'s brother?
Both retain criminal-defense representation as they brace for investigation to turn their way
Both the brother and wife of Gov. Blagojevich are bracing themselves as the investigation that led to the governor's arrest last week could be headed in their direction, the Chicago Sun-Times has learned.
Robert Blagojevich and Patti Blagojevich have retained criminal-defense representation as prosecutors appear interested in conversations involving the two that were allegedly captured on secret recordings, sources say.
(AP)
Robert Blagojevich was overheard on more than 30 different conversations, the sources say. They include ones in which the governor allegedly is discussing trading President-elect Barack Obama's U.S. Senate seat -- as well as the awarding of state contracts -- for campaign contributions.
The governor's brother became chairman of the Friends of Blagojevich campaign fund in August, state records show. Since that time, he had been pressing people who had raised money for Blagojevich to raise more campaign cash before the end of the year, a source familiar with the governor's fund-raising operation said. "Rob was the point guy hounding people to raise money," the source said.
Patti Blagojevich was present at and part of some of the conversations the governor had, according to the governor's criminal complaint. In addition, the first lady has been under scrutiny because of her real estate dealings with people who do business with the state.
Meanwhile, defense lawyer Michael Ettinger, who represents Robert Blagojevich, said there is an expectation that the governor's campaign fund will be indicted.
"There's precedent from [former Gov. George] Ryan," Ettinger said. "I assume they'll do that here too."
If that happens, Ettinger said they'll seek a hearing to have attorney fees set aside from the campaign.
Earlier this week, prosecutors notified the fund that they would seek to freeze it.
"Don't spend it or conceal it or dissipate it, we'll seek reimbursement if you do," Ettinger said the letter stated.