CHICAGO (AP) — The bribery trial of an Illinois lawmaker accused of accepting a $7,000 bribe from a day care center operator is entering the homestretch.

The sides could deliver closing arguments at Rep. Derrick Smith’s trial in Chicago as soon as Monday. Jurors would then withdraw to deliberate.
Federal prosecutors’ weeklong presentation consisted mainly of secret recordings of Smith made by a campaign worker-turned-informant.

In one recording played to jurors, the 50-year-old Chicago Democrat appears to accept the $7,000 bribe — counted out in seven, $1,000 stacks.

The informant has only been referred to in court by his first name, Pete. In cross-examination, defense lawyers have sought to attack his credibility.
The day care center turned out to be fictitious and part of an FBI sting.
Smith has denied any wrongdoing.

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