AKRON, Ohio - New details about wiretaps in the Cuyahoga County corruption investigation were revealed during opening statements in the trial of former county judge Bridget McCafferty in Akron on Monday.
McCafferty is facing charges of making false statements to FBI agents about whether or not she was influenced by former County Commissioner Jimmy Dimora or former County Auditor Frank Russo regarding cases in her courtroom.
Prosecutors claimed that Dimora and Russo put pressure on her to sway cases in favor of friends, and she later allegedly "lied" to federal agents when they questioned her about being influenced in any way.
During opening statements Monday morning, prosecutors said McCafferty lied to investigators because she was afraid that if she spoke the truth, she would face judicial misconduct charges. Prosecutors also said they have taped phone conversations that indicated McCafferty did try to sway cases because of Dimora and Russo.
During its statement, the defense said McCafferty did not lie and answered all questions truthfully. Attorneys said the FBI was trying to trick McCafferty and get her to say things about Dimora and Russo to help in their investigation.
McCafferty is one of two judges implicated in the Cuyahoga County corruption scandal, and she has maintained her innocence since she was indicted.
Also revealed during opening statements were details of the "wire room" at the FBI headquarters in Cleveland. Starting on Dec. 5, 2007, a team of agents monitored cell phone calls between Dimora, Russo and Steve Pumper (head of a local construction firm who was also indicted in the corruption investigation) around the clock.
NewsChannel5Chief Investigator Ron Regan is in the courtroom and will bring you updates throughout the day. Keep checking newsnet5.com for more information.
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