Blagojevich ex-chief of staff pleads not guilty

April 23, 2009 (CHICAGO) Alonzo Monk was silent for most of the five-minute arraignment Thursday before Judge James B. Zagel. The 50-year-old did acknowledge he was pleading not guilty.

Prosecutors have said publicly, though, that they expect Monk to make a deal and take the stand as a government witness if the case goes to trial.

Monk is charged in just one fraud count in the sweeping 19-count corruption case.

Blagojevich and four other defendants were arraigned earlier.

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