Blago indictment: Wait 'til next week

Suntimes blog:

It's no secret a federal grand jury is expected to return a formal indictment against former Gov. Rod Blagojevich.

But it won't be today.

With an April 7 deadline looming, that leaves next week -- likely Thursday -- the day the grand jury considering evidence against Blagojevich and others meets.
Prosecutors could ask for an extension -- but I'm told that won't happen.

Sources say that prosecutors are calling witnesses back for the third and fourth time tying up small, final details.

And don't necessarily expect some big news conference the day the ex-governor is indicted. Typically, the government doesn't hold a second news conference when an indictment is returned on an already charged case. They already held one in December where U.S. Attorney Patrick Fitzgerald said the alleged conduct would make "Lincoln roll over in his grave."

Blagojevich and his chief of staff John Harris were arrested Dec. 9 on charges that Blagojevich tried to sell President Obama's vacant Senate seat, on pay to play allegations and that Blagojevich sought to have Chicago Tribune editorial writers fired in return for the state helping structure a sale of Wrigley Field.

Blagojevich has maintained his innocence. Harris has been talking with prosecutors but has no formal deal.

The ex-governor's wife, Patti, and brother, Robert each figured prominently in the criminal complaint made public in December. But they were not charged.