By MELISSA WALKER & CRAIG ROGERS
Jury deliberations were expected to begin on Tuesday in the bribery case against New York State Assemblyman, William Boyland Jr. as the prosecution wrapped up closing arguments in front of a packed Brooklyn federal courtroom.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Christina Dugger urged jurors to “hold the defendant accountable for his greed and stunning acts of corruption and abuse of power.”
Boyland is accused of accepting $7,000 from undercover federal agents who posed as businessmen after originally asking for $250,000 for his legal fees stemming from other corruption charges in Manhattan.
Dugger portrayed Boyland’s campaign office as an epicenter of corruption. “He is the don who rides on top of the elephant and his staff were ant stompers,” said Dugger.
Boyland’s lawyers admit he took money but contend he did not agree to do anything in exchange. Defense attorney Nancy Ennis said that the federal agents were left with “promises but no action.”
The indictment also charges that Boyand used campaign funds, mostly small donations from working class and elderly residents, were used to pay personal expenses. He also allegedly lined his pockets with thousands of dollars worth of state funds that were made available for the elderly residents of his district. In addition, his father, William Boyland Sr., allegedly accepted a $3,000 check for his son under the guise of campaign contributions.
Boyland is a frequent target of federal prosecutors. Since 2003, Boyalnd has been the focus of or party to 21 counts of corruption. In 2011, he was acquitted of the corruption charges in Manhattan Federal Court.
If convicted in this case he faces up to 30 years in prison. He retains his seat in the Assembly.
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