WHITE PLAINS, N.Y. -- Initial closing arguments are complete in the trial of state Senator Tom Libous. The deputy Senate majority leader is accused of lying to the FBI during a 2010 investigation, and using his influence to get his son a job at a downstate law firm.
Prosecution spent about an hour-and-a-half telling the jury why they believe Senator Libous not only lied to FBI agents back in 2010, but knowingly and willfully made false statements. They say "common sense confirms it."
The jury was charged late Tuesday afternoon, and is scheduled to begin deliberations Wednesday.
"I'm happy that it's over and it's now in the jury's hands and like all of you, we'll wait and see what their decision is," Libous said.
Up for discussion Tuesday were the seven statements that they say are the lies the senator made to the agents concerning his son getting a job at a Westchester County law firm, as well as his salary -- that they believe was lucrative. When the jury goes to deliberate, they only have to find one statement false, but must all agree on the same one.
Prosecutors say their key witness, Anthony Mangone's testimony, matches the phone, credit card, and travel records that tie all the parties allegedly involved in this crime together. That's why they say there's no reasonable doubt in this case.
The defense then began their closing arguments by saying this is a case about vague and ambiguous statements made five years ago about events from 10 years ago.
"Well, we have no burden of proof and we think the fact they didn't call key people in this case is a reflection of the lack of evidence in this case which is. As the judge pointed out, is going to be a very important argument for the defense -- one of many important arguments. I think the judge pointed out," said defense attorney Pail DerOhannesian.