Trial Of Former Secaucus Mayor Dennis Elwell Begins
NEWARK, N.J. (CBSNewYork/AP) -- Opening arguments started Monday in the trial of a former northern New Jersey mayor swept up in a massive 2009 federal sting in New Jersey.
Former Secaucus Mayor Dennis Elwell was charged with accepting $10,000 -- through a middleman -- from an undercover government witness posing as a developer.
The witness, Solomon Dwek, testified but was barred by a federal judge from using the word "bribe" in reference to his dealings with Elwell.
Prosecutors said Elwell accepted money from Dwek, and the promise of $20,000 more, in exchange for agreeing to help with a proposed hotel project.
Elwell pleaded not guilty and denies prosecutors' allegations that he's flouted court rules by contacting witnesses. He resigned as mayor shortly after his July 2009 arrest.
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