Ex-Sen. Wilkerson Pleads Not Guilty To Taking Bribes

A former Massachusetts state senator who was photographed by the FBI allegedly stuffing bribe money under her sweater has pleaded not guilty to attempted extortion charges at her formal arraignment in federal court.

Dianne Wilkerson did not speak to reporters following a hearing that lasted less than five minutes. She remains free on $50,000 unsecured bond. Her next court appearance is scheduled for Jan. 22.

Wilkerson, a Boston Democrat, was indicted last month on eight counts of attempted extortion for allegedly accepting $23,500 in bribes from undercover agents she thought were businessmen looking for help in getting liquor licenses or development advantages.

She has denied the charges.