Blagojevich appeal status March 24, 2015, Sentence shortened or Obama pardon?, Obama cronies Rezko and Blagojevich know corruption details, Will Rod Blagojevich rat on Obama?
Why did Patrick Fitzgerald and the US Justice Department wait until December 2008 to arrest Rod Blagojevich?”…Citizen Wells
“I believe I’m more pristine on Rezko than him.”…Rod Blagojevich
“Regardless of how this plays out, it benefits Obama. If there is no appeal or the appeal is denied, Blagojevich will be sequestered. If the appeal proceeds, it could drag out beyond impacting the 2012 election cycle. The intent is obvious.”…Citizen Wells, July 19, 2011
You don’t suppose…
Two Obama cronies are languishing in prison.
Tony Rezko and Rod Blagojevich.
Tony Rezko has indicated that he would not rat out his buddy Obama.
Rod Blagojevich, in the approx. 3 percent of wiretaps released, inadvertently ratted out Obama.
You don’t suppose that Rezko, of Syrian birth, made a deal with Obama related to Syria?
I do suppose that Obama and Blagojevich have a deal. It probably involves others including former prosecutor Patrick Fitzgerald.
Despite the lies told by Fitzgerald about the rapid arrest of Blagojevich, the prosecution and legal process of his trials and appeals has dragged out forever.
Remember, the feds knew about and began investigating the Blagojevich Administration by at least late 2003.
I stated some time ago that I believe that Blagojevich’s sentence would likely be reduced, that is, if Obama doesn’t pardon him first.
From Citizen Wells January 1, 2014.
“So far no one has ratted on Obama.
Tony Rezko said that he wouldn’t.
Some never had the chance.
Orlando Jones
Donald Young
Quarles Harris Jr.
Christopher Kelly
Bill Gwatney
Andrew Breitbart
Loretta Fuddy
I believe that Rod Blagojevich made a deal with Obama. Probably beginning in 2006.
I believe that Blagojevich, who was deeper under investigation than Obama, agreed to take the heat for a reduced or pardoned sentence.
A lot of interesting things can happen in 2014.
We will know the results of the Blagojevich appeal ruling within a few weeks.
I believe that he will get a sentence reduction or a new trial.
This will determine what Obama does next. And of course Obama not being impeached or arrested will too.
If Obama does not lose senate control in 2014, I believe that he will pardon Blagojevich.
Of course the AL Supreme Court may rule that Obama is ineligible.
The Sheriff Joe Arpaio investigation may convince enough congressmen to investigate Obama.
Dead men don’t talk or do they?
There are plenty still alive who may talk. Even Tony Rezko.
The economy has been propped up by smoke and mirrors. That can only work so long.
Despite the best efforts of the media to talk of an economic recovery the economy on your street, not Wall St. has been heavily impacted.
Millions are unemployed, working part time, receiving food stamps and now being charged more for their healthcare insurance.
The media and Obama camp are trying to prop up the economy through the 2014 elections. They have to win.
By their own admission Obama could be impeached otherwise.
My hope for 2014 is that Obama is arrested and removed from office.
Blagojevich appeal prediction, Reduced sentence or Obama pardon, 6 Seventh Circuit Appeals Court sessions before Nov 4, Obama protection continues, Obama Rezko ties, Blagojevich fall guy
Why did Patrick Fitzgerald and the US Justice Department wait until December 2008 to arrest Rod Blagojevich?”…Citizen Wells
“I believe I’m more pristine on Rezko than him.”…Rod Blagojevich
“There is enough corruption in Illinois so that all it takes is someone who is serious about finding it to uncover it. If a U.S. attorney is not finding corruption in Illinois, they’re not seriously looking for it.”…Northwestern Law Professor James Lindgren
The administration of Rod Blagojevich came under FBI scrutiny beginning in late 2003.
Yet, with all the harm Blagojevich et al were doing to the citizens of Illinois, he was not arrested until just after the 2008 election.
His arrest and the timing of his prosecution were clearly coordinated to have the least impact on Barack Obama.
That protection of Obama continues.
The 2010 election cycle has passed.
The 2012 election cycle has passed.
The 2014 election cycle is about to pass.
We have 6 sessions of the US Court of Appeals Seventh Circuit left before the November 4, 2014 elections.
If the decision comes before the election, I predict that Blagojevich will get a reduced sentence.
If not, it is entirely possible that Obama will pardon Blagojevich.
I believe that they have a deal.
Blagojevich “prosecution” history.
From Citizen Wells December 13, 2013.
The Rod Blagojevich appeal hearing is scheduled for today, Friday the 13th of December, 2013, in the US Court of Appeals Seventh Circuit.
This is part of a 10 year saga of investigations, prosecutions and perpetual delays.
Blagojevich, who was the presumptive presidential candidate, not Obama, in early 2006, should have been prosecuted before Tony Rezko, with stronger ties with Obama, and most definitely before the 2008 election.
Remember, the Blagojevich Administration was being investigated by the feds at least by late 2003 when the chicanery of Obama buddies Tony Rezko and Stuart Levine was being monitored by wiretap.
Attorney Len Goodman has made some strong arguments for a retrial or new sentencing hearing. Do not be surprised at the outcome.
I personally believe that the fix was in by 2006 and this is why Blagojevich was arrested after the 2008 election.
From Citizen Wells July 16, 2013.
“Lawyers for Rod Blagojevich filed an appeal Monday challenging the imprisoned former Illinois governor’s corruption conviction and stiff, 14-year prison term.
The lengthy filing with the 7th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals in Chicago comes more than two years after the Chicago Democrat’s retrial and 16 months after he entered a federal prison in Colorado.”
“Prosecutors have filed a response to Rod Blagojevich’s corruption conviction appeal. The 169-page government filing submitted late Tuesday urges the 7th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals to reject the imprisoned former governor’s request for a new trial. Defense lawyers filed the appeal on the Illinois Democrat’s behalf in July. It asks the Chicago-based appellate court to toss his convictions or at least reduce his 14-year prison sentence.”
Still wondering about the continued delay in the prosecution of Rod Blagojevich, specifically the lengthy delay in his appeal?
Here is one of the reasons.
From Chicago Business March 6, 2013.
“Blagojevich attorney hopes three’s a charm”
“Will three be a charm for Chicago attorney Len Goodman?
He’s on a winning streak that he’s hoping will carry over to his next case — defending former Illinois Gov. Rod Blagojevich.”
“The next big case on the criminal defense attorney’s plate is the appeal of Mr. Blagojevich, who is in prison in Colorado following his conviction on corruption charges.
“Right now, I’m just trying to get through 10,000 pages of trial transcripts,” says Mr. Goodman, who is the nephew of Chicago financier Lester Crown.
The case likely will go before the 7th Circuit Court of Appeals later this year.”
Of course there are other reasons why the appeal of Blagojevich has dragged on so long.
From Citizen Wells January 30, 2013.
“Here is the rest of the story.
Patrick Fitzgerald and the US Justice Department aggressively prosecuted George Ryan.
Patrick Fitzgerald and the US Justice Department, despite the fact that they began wiretaps in late 2003 and had in depth knowledge of corruption in the Rod Blagojevich Administration by 2005 at the latest, delayed the arrest of Blagojevich until after the 2008 election. The production of transcripts required for the Blagojevich appeal were delayed for over half a year by the US Justice Department in 2012, once again delaying the appeal until after the 2012 election.
From Citizen Wells May 27, 2012.
“Fitzgerald aggressively prosecuted Republican ex Governot of Illinois, George Ryan and unjustly went after Scooter Libby and Karl Rove. Fitzgerald waited until after the 2008 elections to arrest Governor Rod Blagojevich despite the fact that he had details of corruption in the Blagojevich Administration at least by late 2003.
Is Patrick Fitzgerald a pawn, an idiot or corrupt?
From an FBI wiretap:
“You know, Axelrod and Obama’s people, you know, clearly turned, you know, got the Chicago media to make Rezko all about me.”
Late 2003.
Earliest documented awareness by FBI and Patrick Fitzgerald of corruption in Blagojevich admin. Pamela Meyer Davis agreed to secretly record conversations involving state health planning board with an FBI wire.
December 31, 2003 NY Times.
“Mr. Fitzgerald announced that he was prosecuting former Gov. George Ryan, a Republican, in a scandal that had been swirling around long before Mr. Fitzgerald got here and that many people thought would never touch the most powerful politicians in Illinois. But there Mr. Fitzgerald was, a week before Christmas, ticking off the details of a 91-page indictment against Mr. Ryan, seemingly from memory.
That, even Mr. Fitzgerald’s former opponents in the courtroom say, is classic Fitzgerald: dogged, dispassionate and endlessly prepared.”
April 8 – May 21, 2004 (Rezko Trial March 12, 2008; 11:11 a.m.)
“FBI Special Agent Daniel Cain, the primary case agent on the investigation into Levine and Rezko, is on the stand now in testimony that is laying the foundation for entering the wiretaps into evidence.
Cain said the investigation, dubbed Operation Board Games by the federal agents, began in December 2003 and was prompted by information gleaned from an informant whom he did not identify. That witness, he said, took part in meetings with two other individuals who were in contact with Levine by phone at his home.
Cain said Levine had three phone lines in his North Shore home. Federal agents recorded conversations on those lines April 8-May 21, 2004. Those dates span the time when Levine, Rezko and others allegedly were working to rig the hospital board vote on a Mercy Health System hospital proposal for Crystal Lake and other kickback schemes prosecutors claim they were engaged in.”
May 9, 2005.
Stuart Levine indicted on corruption charges. Federal subpoena issued to Tony Rezko. June 15, 2005.
Obama purchased home next door to Rezko for $1.65 million, $300,000 less than the asking price. June 15, 2005.
Rita Rezko, Tony’s wife purchased plot next door for $625,000 asking price.
October 25, 2005.
The Chicago Tribune reports about a federal grand jury investigation into the alleged political hiring practices of the Blagojevich administration.
January 2006.
Rita Rezko sells the Obamas one-sixth of her lot for $104,500.
August 5, 2006.
The Chicago Tribune reports that Stuart Levine is cooperating with the federal investigation of state government.”
“December 7, 2008.
Criminal complaint of Blagojevich. Nine individuals is important. Obama helped passed a bill to reduce the number from 15 to 9.
“b. Corruption of the Planning Board”
“At the relevant time period, the Planning Board consisted of nine individuals.”
“Planning Board” (IL Health Facilities Planning Board) is mentioned 31 times.
“Rezko” is mentioned 170 times.
“Hospital” in context of Mercy Hospital mentioned 8 times. December 9, 2008.
Blagojevich arrested
“Fitzgerald said, “We make no allegations” that Obama was aware of any alleged scheming by Blagojevich.”
February 24, 2011.
Counts 1,2,4 in the Blagojevich Indictment are dropped. This represents approx. half of the indictment and includes numerous corruption ties to Blagojevich and Obama.”
“December 7, 2011.
Rod Blagojevich sentenced to 14 years.
Colin Powell, who has continued to endorse Barack Obama, knew that Scooter Libby and Karl Rove were innocent in the Valerie Plame leak. Yet Powell did not share his knowledge with the Bush Administration and thus allowed Patrick Fitzgerald to continue to investigate and prosecute Libby and Rove.
Why did Colin Powell allow Patrick Fitzgerald to be pulled away from the Blagojevich prosecution?
“FOX Chicago News has learned that Rod Blagojevich’s appeal is still having trouble getting off the ground, because of delays in producing transcripts from his two trials.
For the second time in the last four months, Lauren Kaeseberg, one of the attorney’s handling Rod Blagojevich’s appeal, has been threatened with disciplinary action because she still hasn’t provided a complete copy of the Blagojevichtrial transcripts to the appellate court.
The appellate court won’t set a briefing schedule to get the appeal moving until the transcripts are available.
As FOX Chicago reported exclusively in August, the court reporter responsible for producing the 16,000 pages of transcripts took a leave of absence for five and a half months after Blagojevich was convicted. So, the appellate court agreed to wait until September 28th for the transcripts.
But, now in October, they’re still not completed. On Monday, the court issued an order, warning Kaeseberg again that she could face monetary or disciplinary sanctions. She responded Tuesday with an explanation, saying transcripts are still missing because they were under seal, or were handled by a different court reporter and she hopes to have them soon.”
“ The court reporter, trial judge James Zagel and the appeals court all have a responsibility to produce transcripts needed for an appeal in a timely manner.”
Citizen Wells for years has been questioning the delayed prosecution of Rod Blagojevich with the obvious intent of protecting Obama.
Today we present a new question that will be explored further soon.
“Why wasn’t Rod Blagojevich, the Governor of Illinois, wiretapped at least by 2005 when it was known in 2003 that there was widespread corruption in his administration?”
Rod Blagojevich prosecution and appeal reach critical mass in election cycles, Sentence overturned or shortened?, Obama pardon?, Obama being protected how long?, Will Blagojevich keep quiet?
“Why wasn’t Rod Blagojevich, Governor of IL, prosecuted before Tony Rezko, a businessman?”…Citizen Wells
“I believe I’m more pristine on Rezko than him.”…Rod Blagojevich
“Regardless of how this plays out, it benefits Obama. If there is no appeal or the appeal is denied, Blagojevich will be sequestered. If the appeal proceeds, it could drag out beyond impacting the 2012 election cycle. The intent is obvious.”…Citizen Wells, July 19, 2011
I told you this would happen.
Am I a psychic?
No.
2 + 2 = 4.
The Blagojevich Administration came under investigation by late 2003.
Rod Blagojevich should have been arrested at least by 2007 if Patrick Fitzgerald, et al were indeed concerned about the citizens of Illinois.
Instead they waited until after the 2008 election to protect Obama.
Obama et al were protected in the 2008 election cycle, 2010, 2012 and now we are well into the 2014 election cycle.
Why is this important?
Obama is under much scrutiny.
His eligibility and performance are being challenged.
If Obama loses control of both houses of congress, he is in trouble.
Blagojevich knows a lot about Obama and his ties to Rezko.
Obama is safe as long as Blagojevich is in prison and believes that his sentence will be overturned or pardoned.
If Blagojevich’s sentence is not overturned soon or greatly reduced, he will be forced to decide whether to talk or not.
Obama is the only person who could or would pardon Blagojevich.
Obama can only do this if he stays in office.
Rod Blagojevich has a lot to think about.
(To learn more about this, search on Blagojevich at this site)
Blagojevich appeal delay helps Obama, One of many problems for Obama hidden by Syria crisis and domestic issues, Blagojevich legal scrutiny has lasted 10 years
“Why wasn’t Rod Blagojevich, Governor of IL, prosecuted before Tony Rezko, a businessman?”…Citizen Wells
“Why did Patrick Fitzgerald and the US Justice Department wait until December 2008 to arrest Rod Blagojevich?”…Citizen Wells
“Regardless of how this plays out, it benefits Obama. If there is no appeal or the appeal is denied, Blagojevich will be sequestered. If the appeal proceeds, it could drag out beyond impacting the 2012 election cycle. The intent is obvious.”…Citizen Wells, July 19, 2011
From the US Court of Appeals 2012 statistics.
“The median time from filing a notice of appeal or docket date to final disposition decreased from 11 months to 9.8 months.”
The Rod Blagojevich Notice of appeal was filed on December 22, 2011.
Almost 2 years later we are nowhere near disposition.
But in the legal scrutiny of Rod Blagojevich, this is a short span considering the fact that the wiretapping of his associates began in late 2003.
“The following facts make the argument that Rod Blagojevich should have been arrested long before December 8, 2008 and before Tony Rezko.
Blagojevich began scheming as soon as he entered office. From the Blagojevich arrest press release. “The charges include historical allegations that Blagojevich and Harris schemed with others – including previously convicted defendants Antoin Rezko, Stuart Levine, Ali Ata and others – since becoming governor in 2002 to obtain and attempt to obtain financial benefits for himself, his family and third parties, including his campaign committee, Friends of Blagojevich, in exchange for appointments to state boards and commissions, state employment, state contracts and access to state funds.”
Pamela Meyer Davis began wearing a secret FBI wiretap in late 2003 to record conversations involving state health planning board.
Most of the corruption in the Tony Rezko, Stuart Levine and Rod Blagojevich indictments took place between 2003 and 2005. Counts 1, 2 and 4 in the Blagojevich Indictment were eventualy dropped. Those counts covered that time period and represented approximately half of the indictment.
“FBI Special Agent Daniel Cain, the primary case agent on the investigation into Levine and Rezko, is on the stand now in testimony that is laying the foundation for entering the wiretaps into evidence. Cain said the investigation, dubbed Operation Board Games by the federal agents, began in December 2003 and was prompted by information gleaned from an informant whom he did not identify. That witness, he said, took part in meetings with two other individuals who were in contact with Levine by phone at his home. Cain said Levine had three phone lines in his North Shore home. Federal agents recorded conversations on those lines April 8-May 21, 2004. Those dates span the time when Levine, Rezko and others allegedly were working to rig the hospital board vote on a Mercy Health System hospital proposal for Crystal Lake and other kickback schemes prosecutors claim they were engaged in.” Rezko trial March 12, 2008″
Why wasn’t Rod Blagojevich, Governor of IL, prosecuted before Tony Rezko, a businessman?
Why did Patrick Fitzgerald and the US Justice Department wait until December 2008 to arrest Rod Blagojevich?
What were Obama and Blagojevich discussing just after the 2008 election and just before Blagojevich was arrested?
I told you this would happen over 2 years ago.
From Citizen Wells July 19, 2011.
“Regardless of how this plays out, it benefits Obama. If there is no appeal or the appeal is denied, Blagojevich will be sequestered. If the appeal proceeds, it could drag out beyond impacting the 2012 election cycle. The intent is obvious.”
Jacob Kiferbaum sentenced, Blagojevich Rezko Levine Obama crony, Health Facilities Planning Board rigging, Obama IL senate committee changed members from 15 to 9
“Why did the Illinois Senate Health & Human Services Committee, with Obama as chairman, create and push Bill 1332, “Illinois Health Facilities Planning Act,” early in 2003, which reduced the number of members on the Board from 15 to 9, just prior to rigging by Tony Rezko and Rod Blagojevich?”…Citizen Wells
“Why did Patrick Fitzgerald and the US Justice Department wait until December 2008 to arrest Rod Blagojevich?”…Citizen Wells
“I believe I’m more pristine on Rezko than him.”…Rod Blagojevich
From My Fox Chicago July 31, 2013.
“Blagojevich-linked figure sentenced to 27 months”
“A piece of unfinished business from the decade-long investigation of Illinois’ imprisoned ex-governor, Rod Blagojevich, was done in federal court in Chicago.
Building contractor Jacob Kiferbaum (KEE’-fur-bowm) pleaded guilty to attempted extortion and was sentenced Wednesday to 27 months. The 61-year-old has admitted he and others with links to Blagojevich threatened to deny state permission for a suburban hospital’s expansion unless it hired Kiferbaum’s firm. Prior to the sentencing a tearful Kiferbaum apologized to the court and his family.”
“A 2003 investigation into the scheme triggered a series of investigations that eventually toppled dozens of powerbrokers, including Blagojevich.”
I keep reminding everyone that the investigation began in 2003 and Blagojevich was arrested after the 2008 elections.
Patrick Fitzgerald was diverted on a wild goose chase in the Valerie Plame controversy.
Colin Powell knew this.
I also keep reminding everyone that the rigging of the IL Health Facilities Planning board was only possible with the help of Obama’s IL senate committee.
The number of members was changed from 15 to 9.
From the Kiferbaum indictment press release.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
MONDAY MAY 9, 2005
“CHICAGO – Three Chicago area executives – one of them a former member of the Illinois Health Facilities Planning Board, which controls medical facility construction projects in Illinois, and one a managing director of Bear Stearns & Co., an investment firm that arranges financing for public works projects in Illinois – were indicted on federal charges for allegedly engaging in insider-dealing, influence-peddling, kickbacks and corruption involving their private interests and public duties, federal officials announced today. One defendant, Stuart Levine, a lawyer and businessman, allegedly engaged in a fraud scheme to obtain a total of at least $9.5 million for himself and certain associates, while the other two defendants, Jacob Kiferbaum, an architect and construction firm executive, and P. Nicholas Hurtgen, a lawyer and investment banker, allegedly participated in the same fraud scheme to obtain multi-million dollar contracts for their businesses through construction kickbacks or other fraudulent deals. Levine and Hurtgen were arrested this morning by federal agents. Kiferbaum is cooperating with the investigation and was not arrested. All three were charged with various counts of fraud and extortion in a 28-count indictment that was returned by federal grand jury last Wednesday and unsealed today, announced Patrick J. Fitzgerald, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Illinois.”
“Stuart Levine – 19 counts of mail fraud, 4 counts of wire fraud, 2 counts of misapplication of funds, 2 counts of money laundering and one count of extortion – a businessman whose interests included S.L. Investment Enterprises, L.P., and a former member of the Illinois Health Facilities Planning Board (Planning Board), a state commission appointed by the Governor that grants or denies a permit, known as a “Certificate of Need” (CON), to build hospitals, physician offices or other medical facilities statewide. Levine was also a member of the board of trustees of Rosalind Franklin University of Medicine and Science, formerly known as Finch University of Health Sciences/Chicago Medical School (Chicago Medical School or CMS) in North Chicago, and he was chairman of its real estate committee. He was also a trustee of the Northshore Supporting Organization (NSO), a charitable trust that supported Chicago Medical School;”
“Jacob Kiferbaum – 16 counts of mail fraud, 3 counts of wire fraud, 2 counts of misapplication of funds and one count of extortion – chief executive officer of KCC Group Design + Build, Inc., formerly known as Kiferbaum Construction Corp., of Deerfield. Kiferbaum was also a trustee of Chicago Medical School;”
“Mercy Hospital – $1.5 million kickback from Kiferbaum to Levine: Levine solicited a kickback of approximately $1.5 million from Kiferbaum relating to the construction of Mercy Hospital’s $49 million Crystal Lake facility. Kiferbaum agreed to pay a kickback, with the exact amount and manner of the payments to be determined at a later date. Levine used his influence with the Planning Board to ensure that Mercy Hospital received approval of its application to build the Crystal Lake hospital after hiring Kiferbaum’s company. In voting for, and influencing other Planning Board members to vote for, Mercy’s application, Levine concealed from the Planning Board his financial arrangement or contacts with Kiferbaum. After the Planning Board voted to approve Mercy’s application on April 21, 2004, Levine reported to Individual 1 that hiring Kiferbaum did it for Mercy. When Levine told Kiferbaum that no one really knew that Levine was orchestrating the approval, Kiferbaum said he could not thank Levine enough, and Levine said they were in this together. Levine directed that Kiferbaum pay the kickback proceeds to Individual 1 pursuant to a sham consulting contract for $1,728,000, which included the $1.5 million kickback that Levine had solicited and $228,000 that Kiferbaum still owed from the CMS addition kickback. On May 1, 2004, Levine told Individual 1 that other people knew that Mercy received its CON because of the combination of Kiferbaum, Hurtgen and a law firm and that this information would spread like wildfire.”
Blagojevich blackmailing Obama Justice Dept.?, Illinois pay to play emails, ABC Brian Ross 2010 Blagojevich interview, Arpaio investigation supreme court cases and Obama gates cause rats to jump ship?
“Why wasn’t Rod Blagojevich, Governor of IL, prosecuted before Tony Rezko, a businessman?”…Citizen Wells
“Why did Patrick Fitzgerald and the US Justice Department wait until December 2008 to arrest Rod Blagojevich?”…Citizen Wells
“Regardless of how this plays out, it benefits Obama. If there is no appeal or the appeal is denied, Blagojevich will be sequestered. If the appeal proceeds, it could drag out beyond impacting the 2012 election cycle. The intent is obvious.”…Citizen Wells, July 19, 2011
The delays in the prosecution and ultimately the appeal of Rod Blagojevich have led many, including myself, to suspect that some deal was struck with Obama and or the Justice Department that he controls.
From Citizen Wells May 21, 2013.
“We seem to be approaching a “perfect storm” of Obama controversies, any of which would have capsized a Republican president.
Obama’s pals in the mainstream media continue to minimize, mis report, under report and rectify news in an effort to protect Obama and themselves.
However, the brewing storm may be insurmountable for even the best Orwellian efforts of the Obama administration and the press.
Citizen Wells reported in 2008 that Obama had to win the election to keep from being prosecuted for Chicago corruption ties and involvement and for fraud in his eligibility and records. The same is true for 2012 and now Obama knows that he needs to maintain some control of congress with the 2014 elections.
That is, if he is still around then.
The spectre of Obama’s arrest, impeachment or resignation is more with us than ever.
Consider the following:
Project Gunrunner, aka Fast and Furious, has not been fully investigated.
Benghazi Gate.
IRS Gate.
USDOJ Gate.
The Sheriff Joe Arpaio investigation into the Obama birth certificate and other records is proceeding.
There are at least 2 eligibility cases active in state supreme courts.
Judge Roy Moore is the Supreme Court chief justice in Alabama. He has already questioned Obama’s eligibility and Mike Zullo of the Arpaio investigation has provided a lengthy affidavit.
Appellant H. Brooke Paige is awaiting decisions from the Vermont Supreme Court on several issues. He has challenged Obama’s natural born citizen status due to the father being Kenyan/British.
The Blagojevich appeal is still in the works. Many believe he expects a pardon or other assistance from Obama.
The FDIC lawsuit against Mutual Bank et al is still alive. This is the bank that loaned Rita Rezko the money for the lot adjacent to the Obama’s that was subsequently sold to them.
One has to wonder that if Obama appears to be in jeopardy if Blagojevich or even Rezko will talk.
Don’t believe Obama can be touched?
From WND May 19, 2013.
“HALF OF AMERICA WANTS OBAMA IMPEACHED”
“The faux stone columns from his Denver acceptance speech are crumbling, the fireworks have fizzled and the unadulterated adulation of Barack Obama is a sour feeling of disillusion, as a new poll reveals half of America wants him impeached, including a stunning one in four Democrats.
“It may be early in the process for members of Congress to start planning for impeachment of Barack Obama, but the American public is building a serious appetite for it,” said Fritz Wenzel, of Wenzel Strategies, which did the telephone poll Thursday. It has a margin of error of 4.36 percent.
“Half or nearly half of those surveyed said they believed Obama should be impeached for the trifecta of scandals now consuming Washington.””
“Hey, Chicago Tribune: Why are you helping Rod Blagojevich blackmail the Feds?”
“A proven reliable source reports that Rod Blagojevich is attempting to blackmail his way out of prison.
And, there are indications that the feds are in the process of capitulating to Blago’s demands, aided by the collaborative assistance of the ChicagoTribune, in what amounts to a cover-up of a crime.
(Read this email thread from bottom to top)
Top
—–Original Message—–
From: <redacted>
To: Len Goodman
Sent: 2013-05-24 17:24:37 +0000
Subject: Is it a real appeal?
Mr. Len Goodman
It has come to my attention, that there is a strong possibility your client Rod Blagojevich is blackmailing former U.S. Attorney Patrick Fitzgerald and the federal government.
Are you familiar with the interview Rod Blagojevich did with Brian Ross?”
“From:<redacted>
To: “Randall Samborn” <Randall.Samborn@usdoj.gov>
Sent: Saturday, March 12, 2011 1:00:28 PM
Subject: Fwd: Brian Ross 8-26-2010 Blago threatens
Randall Samborn
Looks like Rod Blagojevich’s decision to go the route of extortion might be working for him? . In plain site on ABC.
Do you think if he does not get the deal he wants Rod Blagojevich will tell the public the information Patrick Fitzgerald supposedly wanted the morning he arrested Blago.
More important does Patrick Fitzgerald want information about corruption at the level that Blago speaks of in this interview.
Blago say’s some very telling things in this interview with Brian Ross that will help expose the truth. Simple questions, who told John Chase that the feds had a wire on Blagojevich and that John Wyma was cooperating with U.S. Attorney Patrick Fitzgerald.
Who,what,why,when and where was the decision made to warn Blago ?
Why is no one asking ? That last question was rhetorical, I know why no one is asking.
Randall, lets not forget our discussions about these matters. Maybe this is one of those times that calls for a Special Counsel to be appointed.
Trial or not, there are a lot of questions that need to be answered starting with the ones John Chase has never answered.
“Former Illinois Gov. Rod R. Blagojevich recognizes that daunting challenges await as prosecutors prepare to mount a new effort to convict him on corruption charges, but he told ABC News Friday he sees a triumphant political comeback in his future that will be no less dramatic than the one pulled off by Winston Churchill.
“I’m not ruling out doing something I’ve spent my whole adult life doing,” Blagojevich said when asked about a possible return to politics. “I believe some of the greatest stories in history are some of the great comebacks. You think about Winston Churchill, I mean he spent years in the political wilderness … . If Churchill can comeback from something like that, when I’m vindicated, I certainly don’t write myself off.”
Blagojevich sat down with ABC News Chief Investigative Correspondent Brian Ross Friday as he embarked on a media tour aimed at recovering his reputation in the aftermath of a (mostly) favorable courtroom verdict – a jury this week found him guilty on only one of 24 counts, lying to federal agents. The panel could not find agreement any of the corruption charges, including most sensational government claim, that he attempted to cash-in the senate seat vacated by President Barack Obama for a new job or for campaign contributions.
The now famous Chicago pol-turned-reality TV star — known better as “Blago” — spent the 80-minute interview casting himself in the role of the persecuted David. Goliath, in this telling, was a team of federal prosecutors that remains hell-bent on collecting the scalp that sits under his generous mop of thick brown hair.
“This is a person determined to get his trophy,” he said of U.S. Attorney Patrick Fitzgerald.
Blagojevich told ABC News that shortly after his 2008 arrest, investigators tried to convince him to offer damaging information on “folks in higher places” in exchange for lenience. Blagojevich said that Obama, even more than himself, had a longstanding, close association with Antoin “Tony” Rezko, the Chicago real estate developer who had become the subject of his own federal probe – one that ultimately led to Rezko’s conviction on fraud and bribery charges. The former governor said his very first meeting with Obama, then about to join the Illinois senate, came by way of Rezko’s personal introduction.
Blagojevich said that in late 2008, having just arrived in his jail cell, investigators approached him for information.
“When they had me in custody they were very clear about they wanted me to cooperate and talk about people in higher places ,and with all due respect to Mayor Daley, there’s no one higher than Governor,” he said.
“You’re talking about then president-elect Obama?” Ross asked.
“I’m not saying that right now.” Asked who else he could mean, Blagojevich shifted uncomfortably in his seat. “Is it your impression they were thinking about Obama?” Ross pressed.
“I have my own personal opinion but from where I’m sitting right now it’s probably better for me not to talk about it.” He then grinned, “If I’m guilty of anything it’s that I talk too much.”
The case laid out against the former Illinois governor was built over the course of a six-year investigation that delved into a range of state contracts, political donations, and allegations of backroom deals. Much of it rested on hundreds of hours of recorded telephone conversations, including dozens between Blagojevich and his top advisers. It broke dramatically into the public realm in late 2008, as prosecutors alleged the governor was attempting to cash in an extremely valuable political chit – the newly open senate seat that had been vacated by Obama.
In one tape, Blagojevich can be heard telling an aide “I mean I, I’ve got this thing and it’s [bleep]ing golden … And I, I’m just not giving it up for [bleeping nothing.”
Blagojevich said the tapes may sound boorish, but they only capture what he called “routine” musings and brainstorming with his lawyers and advisers about the options arrayed before him.
“I was discussing ideas,” he said. “Good ones, stupid ones, ugly ones, just discussing ideas, thinking out loud. Discussing different scenarios.”
Ross asked, “You really believe this is routine politics? This is what politics is?”
Blagojevich replied: “It’s routine political horse trading. Say what you will, this is how the system works.”
Later, Blagojevich defended his decision to allow his children to attend his trial – something jurors said afterwards they found distasteful. He said his 14-year-old daughter asked him to allow her to attend. Once he consented, he said his younger daughter, who is seven, did not want to be left behind.
The federal case against him, he added, has taken a severe toll on his family. He recounted how he heard his younger child playing out a conversation between two dolls in which one doll said to the other, “You know I know you lied about me because you want to put me in jail but I’m still your friend.”
“I found that heartbreaking because my little one is actually picking up some of the dynamics of this case where I’ve had some friends that have lied about me and she knows that happens,” the former governor said. “She knows that there was one we didn’t win and the others we’re in a good place on, but we’re going to work on that.”
Blagojevich said that he would, under no condition, accept a plea deal that would require him to admit guilt in any of the corruption allegations – even a deal that allowed him to stay out of prison. On the one guilty count alone, he could face a five year sentence, though he vowed to appeal.
“The real world of politics, Brian, is rough and tumble business,” he said.”
Obama nomination of John Wyma attorney Zach Fardon to replace Patrick Fitzgerald conflict of interest, More Obama stacking of USDOJ, Wyma Obama involvement in Health Board corruption and senate seat selling
“Why did the Illinois Senate Health & Human Services Committee, with Obama as chairman, create and push Bill 1332, “Illinois Health Facilities Planning Act,” early in 2003, which reduced the number of members on the Board from 15 to 9, just prior to rigging by Tony Rezko and Rod Blagojevich?”…Citizen Wells
“The defense also questioned whether the government fully investigated Rezko’s allegations — which were the subject of recent court filings — that Wyma was involved in a specific bribery scheme at the Illinois Health Facilities Planning Board.”…Chicago Tribune November 29, 2011
“I believe I’m more pristine on Rezko than him.”…Rod Blagojevich
Barack Obama and John Wyma are both tied to Chicago corruption scandals including the rigging of the IL Health Planning Facilities Board and the selling of Obama’s senate seat.
Now Obama has nominated John Wyma’s attorney, Zach Fardon to replace Patrick Fitzgerald in the USDOJ.
Pre Obama this was considered a conflict of interest.
In the Obama Big Brother regime this is status quo.
From Citizen Wells December 2, 2011.
“Most of what we are fed from the media about Blagojevich is in regard to the alleged selling of Obama’s senate seat. As I have stated repeatedly, that was a cleverly crafted diversion. The Justice Department has added to this charade by dropping counts 1,2 and 4 against Blagojevich which contain references to much of the earlier corruption tied to Obama, specifically the rigging of the IL Health Planning Board. Today’s hearing is in regard to a motion about the testimony of John Wyma. I was pleased to find that 2 reports out of Chicago did not limit references to just the alleged selling of the senate seat.
From the Chicago Tribune November 29, 2011.
“With one week to go before former Gov. Rod Blagojevich is sentenced for widespread public corruption, his attorneys have asked a federal judge to consider what they say is new evidence regarding a key government witness.”
“In the filing, Blagojevich’s defense team referenced the recent sentencing of Blagojevich fundraiser Antoin “Tony” Rezko. Rezko was sentenced to 10 1/2 years in prison last week.
In their filing, Blagojevich’s attorneys say prosecutors failed to tell the judge who approved wiretaps for the Blagojevich investigation that then-staffer John Wyma, who was a confidential informant for the government, had cut a deal to avoid being investigated.
But Wyma’s attorney denied his client had any agreement with the government in 2008 when he agreed to be a confidential informant.
“There was never any understanding he would not be investigated,” attorney Zach Fardon said. “He cooperated truthfully with no preconditions.”
Wyma later received immunity from the government when he was subpoenaed to appear before a grand jury.
The defense also questioned whether the government fully investigated Rezko’s allegations — which were the subject of recent court filings — that Wyma was involved in a specific bribery scheme at the Illinois Health Facilities Planning Board.”
“Blago’s lawyers want hearing based on new John Wyma information
Rod Blagojevich’s lawyers are asking for a special hearing to discuss what they say is new information regarding a key witness at the former governor’s trial.
They are asking U.S. District Judge James Zagel for an evidentiary hearing regarding the testimony of onetime Blagojevich friend and lobbyist John Wyma, arguing they weren’t allowed to properly cross examine him at trial. It was Wyma’s cooperation in 2008 that led to FBI wiretaps against the now-convicted ex-governor.
In a weekend filing, lawyers questioned whether the government properly vetted information against Wyma that was provided by a cooperating Tony Rezko. Rezko, a onetime fund-raiser to Blagojevich convicted on 16 counts of corruption, was sentenced to 10 ½ years last week.
In filings regarding Rezko’s sentencing, Wyma’s cooperation with the government is discussed, including that Rezko told prosecutors that he tried to extract a campaign contribution through Wyma from Provena Health, whom Wyma represented as a lobbyist at the time.
Lawyers question whether bribery was involved when Provena was granted a certificate of need from an Illinois hospital board. Rezko told prosecutors in private sessions that Provena had a dispute with someone on the hospital board and resolved it by paying the board member, according to the Blagojevich defense filing. Prosecutors say the charge was unsubstantiated.”
The Obama administration has picked a private attorney and former federal prosecutor who helped send former Illinois Gov. George Ryan to prison for corruption to head the U.S. attorney’s office in Chicago, Illinois’ senators announced Thursday.
Zachary Fardon would replace Patrick Fitzgerald, who stepped down last summer to enter private practice. Fitzgerald rose to national prominence during more than a decade in the office and successfully convicted two Illinois governors, including Ryan. The U.S. Senate must confirm President Barack Obama’s nomination of Fardon.
Both of Illinois’ senators, Democrat Dick Durbin and Republican Mark Kirk, support the choice.
“Zachary Fardon will be an exceptional U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of Illinois,” Durbin said in a news release announcing the nomination.”
“All of this follows the recent conviction of Tony Rezko and his apparent cooperation with prosecutors as well as the indictment of William Cellini for extorting campaign contributions for Blago from a film producer. What are the odds Sen. Durbin will be writing President Obama in 2012 or 2016 to commute Blago’s sentence?”
Obama nominates Zachary Fardon to replace Patrick Fitzgerald, Fardon represented John Wyma Blagojevich friend crony, Wyma avoided prosecution by being witness
“Why did the Illinois Senate Health & Human Services Committee, with Obama as chairman, create and push Bill 1332, “Illinois Health Facilities Planning Act,” early in 2003, which reduced the number of members on the Board from 15 to 9, just prior to rigging by Tony Rezko and Rod Blagojevich?”…Citizen Wells
“Why did Patrick Fitzgerald and the US Justice Department wait until December 2008 to arrest Rod Blagojevich?”…Citizen Wells
“I believe I’m more pristine on Rezko than him.”…Rod Blagojevich
From CNS News May 23, 2013.
“New federal prosecutor nominated for Chicago”
The Obama administration has picked a private attorney and former federal prosecutor who helped send former Illinois Gov. George Ryan to prison for corruption to head the U.S. attorney’s office in Chicago, Illinois’ senators announced Thursday.
Zachary Fardon would replace Patrick Fitzgerald, who stepped down last summer to enter private practice. Fitzgerald rose to national prominence during more than a decade in the office and successfully convicted two Illinois governors, including Ryan. The U.S. Senate must confirm President Barack Obama’s nomination of Fardon.
Both of Illinois’ senators, Democrat Dick Durbin and Republican Mark Kirk, support the choice.
“Zachary Fardon will be an exceptional U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of Illinois,” Durbin said in a news release announcing the nomination. “I spoke to him today and advised him that he’ll have to hit the ground running and immediately focus on daily gang and gun violence plaguing the streets of Chicago.”
Kirk called Fardon “an outstanding pick to continue Patrick Fitzgerald’s tradition of aggressively prosecuting criminal activity that threatens northern Illinois.”
The post is widely regarded as Chicago’s second-most powerful job, after the mayor. The chief prosecutor and around 170 assistant attorneys also have an impact beyond Illinois, including by handling major terrorism cases.
Fardon, a partner at the Chicago law firm Latham Watkins, was on the team of federal prosecutors who secured convictions against Ryan in 2006. In that case and in others, Fardon gained a reputation as an adept, quick-witted cross-examiner.
Fardon also served in the U.S. attorney’s office in Nashville, Tenn., and later entered private practice. Among his clients was John Wyma, a longtime lobbyist and friend of former Illinois Democratic Gov. Rod Blagojevich, whose testimony helped convict Ryan of corruption.”
“Sam Adam Jr. has just accused President Barack Obama and his transition team of negotiating with Blagojevich.
The offer came from Rod to Tom Balanoff, Adam says. Balanoff brought it to Valerie Jarrett and word came back from Rahm Emanuel through John Wyma. It’s a negotiation they were in, he said of Obama and Blagojevich.”
“Blagojevich Confidant Turned Informant”
“For years, John Wyma has been one of Gov. Rod Blagojevich’s closest allies. He served as Blagojevich’s chief of staff in Congress and was a key advisor in his 2002 campaign for governor. When his former boss took over the statehouse, Wyma remained a central fundraiser and counselor, but also had Blagojevich’s ear as a lobbyist. But now this longtime advisor and old friend has become one of the most significant cooperators in the government’s efforts to put Blagojevich behind bars.
Wyma, 41, was close to much of the alleged wrongdoing during the feds’ five-year probe, and he remains a subject of the government’s investigation into the Illinois Health Planning Facilities Board, according to the criminal complaint for Blagojevich. But Wyma’s turn from confidant to informant ultimately inched prosecutors to the governor’s most recent — and most brazen — alleged attempts to trade political favors for campaign cash, the complaint states.
A fixture of the Blagojevich’s inner circle, Wyma as a lobbyist routinely traveled with the governor, flying with him during official state trips more than a dozen times during his first term, according to the Chicago Sun Times.
For years, John Wyma has been one of Gov. Rod Blagojevich’s closest allies. He served as Blagojevich’s chief of staff in Congress and was a key advisor in his 2002 campaign for governor. When his former boss took over the statehouse, Wyma remained a central fundraiser and counselor, but also had Blagojevich’s ear as a lobbyist. But now this longtime advisor and old friend has become one of the most significant cooperators in the government’s efforts to put Blagojevich behind bars.
A friend of the governor for more than a decade, on the day before his arrest Blagojevich told reporters he and Wyma talked football the Wednesday before Thanksgiving.
“You can’t get much closer than they are to each other,” said Rich Miller who runs the Illinois political insider blog Capitol Fox. “[Wyma’s] a lobbyist but he’s almost never in Springfield lobbying legislators. He virtually only lobbies the governor at his home in Chicago.”
Wyma could not be reached for comment, despite multiple calls and visits to his office and addresses listed in his name. His attorney, former federal prosecutor Zachary Fardon, who helped put former Illinois Governor George Ryan in jail, said in an email statement today that “There are news stories indicating that my client, John Wyma, is “Individual A” in the criminal complaint against Governor Rod Blagojevich. Mr. Wyma has made efforts to provide federal investigators with truthful information regarding the matters under investigation and will continue to do so. Out of respect for the ongoing process, we are making no further statements related to these matters at this time.”
Individual A
Those efforts began just months ago, in October, when, according to the criminal complaint released in the wake of the governor ‘s arrest Tuesday, Wyma — believed to be the person identified in documents only as Individual A — began talking with the FBI. The timing hardly seems a coincidence: it dovetails with the weeks, according to published accounts, that Wyma was named in a subpoena sent to former client Provena Health. The hospital company had donated money to the governor ‘s campaign shortly after receiving a favorable ruling.
Whatever his role in the hospital donations, Wyma’s cooperation soon proved fruitful to prosecutors. According to the criminal complaint, Wyma is one of the key sources to the source of the tip that Blagojevich is using the final months of the year to raise funds through payoffs before the new state ethics law goes into effect in January. That law would sharply limit any individual or entity with state contracts worth more than $50,000 from donating to the governor’s campaign coffers.”
“Last time it was the Mercy Health System’s attempt to obtain the Illinois Health Facilities Planning Board’s approval.
Joseph Levine, Jim Ryan’s biggest fund raiser turned Rod Blagojevich buddy, fixed the favorable outcome after his contractor buddy Jacob Kiferbaum got the nod from Mercy to build the Crystal Lake hospital. Kiferbaum agreed to kick back to Levine and Tony Rezko.
To put it in the words of the U.S. Attorney’s press release on the Tony Rezko indictment:
“Rezko and Levine also were seeking to obtain a kickback of at least $1 million from contractor Jacob Kiferbaum, whose construction company was to build a new facility for Mercy Hospital in Crystal Lake, Illinois, if that facility received approval from the Illinois Health Facilities Planning Board, on which Levine sat.”
In any event, this time the controversy is down the Fox Valley in Elgin and concerns Provena St. Joe’s being granted permission to conduct open heart surgery after hiring John Wyma.
The gist of the Chicago Tribune story by Ray Long and Jeff Coen is that Provena hired Wyma. About a month after having gotten permission to expand its medical service, Provena’s for-profit arm made a $25,000 contribution to Governor Blagojevich’s campaign fund.”
Patrick Fitzgerald University of Chicago Law School, National security law program course, Obama Senior Lecturer, Corruption comes full circle
“Why wasn’t Rod Blagojevich, Governor of IL, prosecuted before Tony Rezko, a businessman?”…Citizen Wells
“Why did Colin Powell allow Patrick Fitzgerald to be pulled away from the Blagojevich prosecution?”…Citizen Wells
“Why wasn’t Rod Blagojevich, the Governor of Illinois, wiretapped at least by 2005 when it was known in 2003 that there was widespread corruption in his administration?”…Citizen Wells
Get involved in Chicago and Illinois corruption and apparently you are a shoe in for a job at the University of Chicago Law School.
From The National Law Journal March 6, 2013.
“University of Chicago lands Fitzgerald for teaching job”
“Patrick Fitzgerald, the high-profile former U.S. attorney, is heading
to the University of Chicago Law School.
He has been named the inaugural Feirson Distinguished Lecturer at the
school and will teach one course per year, beginning with a national
security law program this spring.
“Pat Fitzgerald is one of the most respected and skilled attorneys of
his generation,” dean Michael Schill said. “No one has done more to
bring honor to the legal profession—especially in Chicago—than Pat.
His unimpeachable ethics, his extraordinary brilliance and his
astounding work ethic make him one of the finest public servants this
country has ever known.”
Fitzgerald joined Skadden, Arps, Slate, Meagher & Flom as a partner in
October following a decade as the U.S. attorney for the Northern
District of Illinois. In that post, he oversaw the successful
corruption prosecutions of former Illinois governors Rod Blagojevich
and George Ryan. As a special prosecutor in the Valerie Plame leak
case, he secured the conviction of Lewis “Scooter” Libby, an aide to
former Vice President Dick Cheney, on counts including obstruction of
justice and perjury.”
Patrick Fitzgerald is either clueless, biased and/or corrupt.
Fitzgerald aggressively prosecuted Republican Governor of Illinois George Ryan and then aggressively attacked Scooter Libby and Karl Rove, unjustly, and with the knowledge by Colin Powell and others that they were innocent of the leak in the Valerie Plame case.
All the while Fitzgerald delayed the prosecution of Rod Blagojevich until after the 2008 election.
Barack Obama was a Senior Lecturer at the University of Chicago Law School.
The new Citizen Wells question that begs an answer is:
“Why wasn’t Rod Blagojevich, the Governor of Illinois, wiretapped at least by 2005 when it was known in 2003 that there was widespread corruption in his administration?”
Blagojevich appeal update, March 7, 2013, 10000 pages of delayed trial transcripts, 7th Circuit Court of Appeals, Later in 2013, Fitzgerald US Justice Dept. delayed prosecution
“Why wasn’t Rod Blagojevich, Governor of IL, prosecuted before Tony Rezko, a businessman?”…Citizen Wells
“Why did Colin Powell allow Patrick Fitzgerald to be pulled away from the Blagojevich prosecution?”…Citizen Wells
“Why wasn’t Rod Blagojevich, the Governor of Illinois, wiretapped at least by 2005 when it was known in 2003 that there was widespread corruption in his administration?”…Citizen Wells
Still wondering about the continued delay in the prosecution of Rod Blagojevich, specifically the lengthy delay in his appeal?
Here is one of the reasons.
From Chicago Business March 6, 2013.
“Blagojevich attorney hopes three’s a charm”
“Will three be a charm for Chicago attorney Len Goodman?
He’s on a winning streak that he’s hoping will carry over to his next case — defending former Illinois Gov. Rod Blagojevich.”
“The next big case on the criminal defense attorney’s plate is the appeal of Mr. Blagojevich, who is in prison in Colorado following his conviction on corruption charges.
“Right now, I’m just trying to get through 10,000 pages of trial transcripts,” says Mr. Goodman, who is the nephew of Chicago financier Lester Crown.
The case likely will go before the 7th Circuit Court of Appeals later this year.”
Of course there are other reasons why the appeal of Blagojevich has dragged on so long.
From Citizen Wells January 30, 2013.
“Here is the rest of the story.
Patrick Fitzgerald and the US Justice Department aggressively prosecuted George Ryan.
Patrick Fitzgerald and the US Justice Department, despite the fact that they began wiretaps in late 2003 and had in depth knowledge of corruption in the Rod Blagojevich Administration by 2005 at the latest, delayed the arrest of Blagojevich until after the 2008 election. The production of transcripts required for the Blagojevich appeal were delayed for over half a year by the US Justice Department in 2012, once again delaying the appeal until after the 2012 election.
From Citizen Wells May 27, 2012.
“Fitzgerald aggressively prosecuted Republican ex Governot of Illinois, George Ryan and unjustly went after Scooter Libby and Karl Rove. Fitzgerald waited until after the 2008 elections to arrest Governor Rod Blagojevich despite the fact that he had details of corruption in the Blagojevich Administration at least by late 2003.
Is Patrick Fitzgerald a pawn, an idiot or corrupt?
From an FBI wiretap:
“You know, Axelrod and Obama’s people, you know, clearly turned, you know, got the Chicago media to make Rezko all about me.”
Late 2003.
Earliest documented awareness by FBI and Patrick Fitzgerald of corruption in Blagojevich admin. Pamela Meyer Davis agreed to secretly record conversations involving state health planning board with an FBI wire.
December 31, 2003 NY Times.
“Mr. Fitzgerald announced that he was prosecuting former Gov. George Ryan, a Republican, in a scandal that had been swirling around long before Mr. Fitzgerald got here and that many people thought would never touch the most powerful politicians in Illinois. But there Mr. Fitzgerald was, a week before Christmas, ticking off the details of a 91-page indictment against Mr. Ryan, seemingly from memory.
That, even Mr. Fitzgerald’s former opponents in the courtroom say, is classic Fitzgerald: dogged, dispassionate and endlessly prepared.”
April 8 – May 21, 2004 (Rezko Trial March 12, 2008; 11:11 a.m.)
“FBI Special Agent Daniel Cain, the primary case agent on the investigation into Levine and Rezko, is on the stand now in testimony that is laying the foundation for entering the wiretaps into evidence.
Cain said the investigation, dubbed Operation Board Games by the federal agents, began in December 2003 and was prompted by information gleaned from an informant whom he did not identify. That witness, he said, took part in meetings with two other individuals who were in contact with Levine by phone at his home.
Cain said Levine had three phone lines in his North Shore home. Federal agents recorded conversations on those lines April 8-May 21, 2004. Those dates span the time when Levine, Rezko and others allegedly were working to rig the hospital board vote on a Mercy Health System hospital proposal for Crystal Lake and other kickback schemes prosecutors claim they were engaged in.”
May 9, 2005.
Stuart Levine indicted on corruption charges. Federal subpoena issued to Tony Rezko. June 15, 2005.
Obama purchased home next door to Rezko for $1.65 million, $300,000 less than the asking price. June 15, 2005.
Rita Rezko, Tony’s wife purchased plot next door for $625,000 asking price.
October 25, 2005.
The Chicago Tribune reports about a federal grand jury investigation into the alleged political hiring practices of the Blagojevich administration.
January 2006.
Rita Rezko sells the Obamas one-sixth of her lot for $104,500.
August 5, 2006.
The Chicago Tribune reports that Stuart Levine is cooperating with the federal investigation of state government.”
“December 7, 2008.
Criminal complaint of Blagojevich. Nine individuals is important. Obama helped passed a bill to reduce the number from 15 to 9.
“b. Corruption of the Planning Board”
“At the relevant time period, the Planning Board consisted of nine individuals.”
“Planning Board” (IL Health Facilities Planning Board) is mentioned 31 times.
“Rezko” is mentioned 170 times.
“Hospital” in context of Mercy Hospital mentioned 8 times. December 9, 2008.
Blagojevich arrested
“Fitzgerald said, “We make no allegations” that Obama was aware of any alleged scheming by Blagojevich.”
February 24, 2011.
Counts 1,2,4 in the Blagojevich Indictment are dropped. This represents approx. half of the indictment and includes numerous corruption ties to Blagojevich and Obama.”
“December 7, 2011.
Rod Blagojevich sentenced to 14 years.
Colin Powell, who has continued to endorse Barack Obama, knew that Scooter Libby and Karl Rove were innocent in the Valerie Plame leak. Yet Powell did not share his knowledge with the Bush Administration and thus allowed Patrick Fitzgerald to continue to investigate and prosecute Libby and Rove.
Why did Colin Powell allow Patrick Fitzgerald to be pulled away from the Blagojevich prosecution?
“FOX Chicago News has learned that Rod Blagojevich’s appeal is still having trouble getting off the ground, because of delays in producing transcripts from his two trials.
For the second time in the last four months, Lauren Kaeseberg, one of the attorney’s handling Rod Blagojevich’s appeal, has been threatened with disciplinary action because she still hasn’t provided a complete copy of the Blagojevichtrial transcripts to the appellate court.
The appellate court won’t set a briefing schedule to get the appeal moving until the transcripts are available.
As FOX Chicago reported exclusively in August, the court reporter responsible for producing the 16,000 pages of transcripts took a leave of absence for five and a half months after Blagojevich was convicted. So, the appellate court agreed to wait until September 28th for the transcripts.
But, now in October, they’re still not completed. On Monday, the court issued an order, warning Kaeseberg again that she could face monetary or disciplinary sanctions. She responded Tuesday with an explanation, saying transcripts are still missing because they were under seal, or were handled by a different court reporter and she hopes to have them soon.”
” The court reporter, trial judge James Zagel and the appeals court all have a responsibility to produce transcripts needed for an appeal in a timely manner.”
Citizen Wells for years has been questioning the delayed prosecution of Rod Blagojevich with the obvious intent of protecting Obama.
Today we present a new question that will be explored further soon.
“Why wasn’t Rod Blagojevich, the Governor of Illinois, wiretapped at least by 2005 when it was known in 2003 that there was widespread corruption in his administration?”
Citizen WElls 