Jury To Get First Case From Corruption Sting

Jury deliberations will soon begin at the first trial stemming from New Jersey's largest corruption sting.

A federal judge in Newark will explain the charges to the panel and lawyers will present closing arguments Monday.

Suspended Jersey City Deputy Mayor Leona Beldini faces six charges of bribery and extortion.

The defense rested without calling any witnesses.

Federal prosecutors claim Beldini accepted $20,000 in campaign contributions on behalf of Jersey City Mayor Jerramiah Healy from government informant Solomon Dwek. They allege Beldini, acting as Healy's campaign treasurer, promised to help Dwek with building approvals and to be the real estate broker for his development.

The defense claims Beldini never accepted cash from Dwek and has done nothing illegal.