Thaindian News

By Meena Kar
Aug 18, (THAINDIAN NEWS) The controversial trial of former Illinois Governor Rod Blagojevich showed a mixed reactions amongst the locals as some of them found it unfair that he was convicted on just one of the 24 charges and some even sympathizing with the jury. In spite of the reaction, the scene outside the courtroom after the trial reflected the fan following of the convicted former Governor. With some of the serious charges brushed aside, the court found Rod Blagojevich guilty of making false statements to the FBI. Though the conviction could see him serve up to 5 years in prison, neither the prosecutors nor the critics have shown satisfaction from the verdict.

Jan Terry of Lincoln Land Community College said that personally she would not want to be in the jury considering the complexity of the case. She added that he felt Rod Blagojevich was guilty on more than just one count. One of her colleagues, Maryjane Million echoed her feelings and said that she was glad that the jury had taken their time and reviewed the case carefully, but felt that the result was disappointing. Some of the locals had a far stronger reaction for the trial saying that he should have been given the life sentence for the handling of the state.

The scenes at the courtroom, however, were quite in contrast to the one outside. While the verdict was being read out, the flamboyant and usually animated former governor was seen piking at his nails and his wife was seen knitting intently and holding back her tears. After the trial, Rod Blagojevich thanked he jurors.