Traficant Engages in Trial Theatrics

Rep. James A. Traficant Jr.’s cross-examination of a key government witness Tuesday turned into a shouting match with the judge over the congressman’s statements in court.

Although not a lawyer, Traficant (D-Ohio) is defending himself against charges he accepted gifts and free labor for his political clout and took kickbacks from his staff.

Testifying for the government, J.J. Cafaro, former owner of U.S. Aerospace Group, said Monday that he had an employee deliver a cashier’s check for $26,948.18 to Traficant.

The money, Cafaro testified, was part of a phony deal to buy the congressman’s boat in exchange for his helping U.S. Aerospace secure a government contract. He said Traficant later returned the check for fear it would appear inappropriate.

Traficant hasn’t commented on the nature of the check, but in an attempt to erode Cafaro’s credibility, asked him if he actually handed the congressman a book with the check in it. Cafaro denied it.

“You are lying under oath!” Traficant shouted at Cafaro, raising the ire of U.S. District Judge Lesley Wells, who has repeatedly warned Traficant that he can only ask questions, not make statements, during cross-examination of witnesses.

She told the jury to disregard the congressman’s statement and immediately called a recess.

Once the jury left, Traficant shouted at Assistant U.S. Atty. Craig Morford that he would not be pushed around.

“Congressman, sit down over there,” the judge shouted at Traficant, pointing to the defense table.

Asked outside the courthouse about the outburst, Traficant said: “I never do anything without a reason. The courtroom is a theater.”

Prosecutors planned to rest their case today.

Traficant denies all 10 counts of bribery, racketeering and tax evasion, which carry a maximum penalty of 63 years in prison. He also faces expulsion from the House if convicted.