Testimony continues in Yavorcik Oakhill case

CLEVELAND — At its core, the charges facing Martin Yavorcik are he ran in 2008 for Mahoning County prosecutor to kill a criminal investigation against his political allies, if he won, in exchange for support and money.

Several witnesses, including four today, testified at his corruption/conspiracy trial that the supposed quid pro quo was their impression of what Yavorcik did.

However, no one, "including FBI special agent Deane Hassman, who investigates political corruption in the Mahoning Valley and testified today," said Yavorcik, who lost that election, came right out and said he'd terminate the Oakhill Renaissance Place criminal-corruption investigation if elected.

When asked if Yavorcik ever said he'd stop the investigation, Hassman testified, "That type of language, no." But on secretly recorded tapes, Yavorcik says he planned on taking care of his allies, some of who were longtime friends and being investigated.

Yavorcik faces 11 felonies including engaging in a pattern of corrupt activity, conspiracy, bribery, tampering with records and money laundering.

The three other witnesses who testified for the prosecution said it was their impression in 2008 that Yavorcik would quash the investigation.

For the complete story, read Wednesday's Vindicator and Vindy.com