Blagojevich's Big Bag O' Cash

By Kevin Robinson in News on Apr 30, 2008 1:00PM

As if the allegations against Rod Blagojevich couldn't get more sensational in the Tony Rezko trial, prosecutors told judge Amy St Eve yesterday that Ali Ata, the former executive director of the Illinois Finance Authority, will testify that he helped deliver "black plastic bags" of cash to prevent contractors from putting a lien on Blago's home.

Prosecutors are expected to lead Ata through testimony that he took $125,000 out of a safe, giving $20K to Rezko, and accompanying him to deliver $50K to suburban roofing contractor and Blagojevich associate Christopher Kelly. Blagojevich spokeswoman Abby Ottenhoff said in a statement that "the Blagojeviches personally paid for the work to renovate their ... family room out of their checking account." Ata is expected to take the stand next week, although he could begin his testimony as early as Thursday.