Probation Corruption Case Will Go To Jury

A federal judge has rejected a motion to dismiss the charges against former Massachusetts Probation Commissioner John O'Brien and his two co-defendants.

The government alleges that O'Brien and his co-defendants engaged in a scheme to trade votes for bigger budgets and other favors from legislators, in return for hiring applicants sponsored by legislative leaders using a rigged process they tried to make look legitimate.

Defense attorneys argued Monday that the evidence presented by prosecutors over 35 days, including testimony from 59 witnesses, was insufficient to sustain a conviction.

Judge William Young rejected that argument and scheduled closing arguments for Tuesday.

Prosecutors on Monday also alleged that House Speaker Robert DeLeo was part of the alleged conspiracy. DeLeo is not charged with a crime, and has denied any wrongdoing.

The jury could begin deliberating as early as Tuesday afternoon.