The second week of testimony in the Bonusgate trial wrapped up Friday with the second witness still on the stand.
Jeff Foreman, former chief of staff in state Rep. Mike Veon's Capitol office, admitted on the stand that he used state time for private legal work. "It was a bad thing, a wrong thing and I did it," he said.
Mr. Foreman also conceded that he had conversations with Brett Cott, a former caucus staffer, about the alleged scheme in which taxpayer-funded bonuses were used to pay for campaign work.
Mr. Cott is on trial with Mr. Veon and two other former staffers - Stephen Keefer and Annamarie Perretta-Rosepink - all associated with the House Democratic caucus.
Dauphin County Judge Richard A. Lewis hasn't yet decided whether to compel 75 current and former state representatives, senators and staffers to testify. They were subpoenaed by defense attorneys.
Lawyers trying to quash the subpoenas say those witnesses weren't involved in the activities of Mr. Veon and his co-defendants. Their testimony isn't relevant, the attorneys said.
Veon attorney Dan Raynak said those subpoenaed are more credible than other witnesses in the case who are testifying under plea deals or immunity agreements. Also, he said, they are familiar with legislative practices and political work. Mr. Raynak said he would like the option of having the 75 available to call.
Judge Lewis gave attorneys a week to file written arguments.
The trial resumes Monday.
First Published: February 13, 2010, 5:00 a.m.