Former aide testifies in DeWeese corruption case

Pennsylvania Rep. Bill DeWeese’s former top aide is testifying against his ex-boss as his corruption trial enters its second day.

Mike Manzo, DeWeese’s chief of staff while he was the House Democratic floor leader, is testifying Tuesday under the terms of a plea agreement that allowed him to plead guilty to reduced charges in exchange for cooperating with the prosecution.

Manzo testified briefly Monday, portraying DeWeese as a detached manager but a successful fundraiser.

 

DeWeese, whose 35-year legislative career includes a stint as House speaker and a much longer tenure as Democratic floor leader, is accused of illegally using legislative employees for political campaigning and fundraising.

DeWeese faces four counts of theft and one count each of conspiracy and conflict of interest.