Defense in Pa. corruption case tries to shift blame

HARRISBURG, Pa. (AP) — Defense attorneys are trying to portray a key prosecution witness who has pleaded guilty as the master of schemes to rout taxpayer money and resources into waging political campaigns.

Defense attorney Joel Sansone closely questioned a witness today about who gave him orders and a promotion while he worked for the House Democratic caucus.

Witness Eric Webb agreed that a top former House Democratic staff aide, Mike Manzo, gave him orders and his promotion.

Webb also insisted, however, that Manzo worked closely with the House’s former No. 2 Democrat, Mike Veon.

Veon is on trial with three former aides in Dauphin County. Webb’s testimony came on the 13th day of trial.

Manzo pleaded guilty last month. The attorney general’s office gave Webb a grant of immunity.