Jury Selection Begins In Corruption Trial Of Dean Skelos And His Son

NEW YORK (CBSNewYork) -- Jury selection will begin Monday in the trial of former New York Senate leader Dean Skelos and his son.

Skelos, 67, was the state's most powerful Republican before his arrest in May on extortion, conspiracy and bribery charges.

Prosecutors said he used his position to get his son, Adam, a no-show job. He's also accused of accepting hundreds of thousands of dollars from developers in exchange for political favors, CBS2 reported.

Some of the evidence expected to be introduced at trial includes wire-tapped exchanges between Skelos and his son using code language to discuss their alleged schemes, WCBS 880's Mike Xirinachs reported.

Legal experts agree the defense will try to portray Skelos as a loving father who was only trying to help his child, Xirinachs reported.

Skelos and his son have pleaded not guilty.

Skelos stepped down from his leadership post following his arrest, but continues to serve in the Senate.

This is the second time this month that one of the state's biggest political figures is going on trial on corruption charges.

The trial of former New York State Assembly Speaker Sheldon Silver began two weeks ago. He is accused of taking nearly $4 million in payoffs and kickbacks disguised as attorney referral feeds.

The 71-year-old Democrat said federal prosecutors have misinterpreted the law, turning innocent actions into crimes.

He said he will be vindicated.