Prosecution rests in John Edwards trial

MICHAEL BIESECKER
Associated Press

GREENSBORO, NC (AP) — Prosecutors have rested their case against John Edwards after calling to the witness stand many of his closest friends and advisers.

The 14 days of testimony was often dramatic. Edwards’ once-close confidant Andrew Young talked about how he and his wife used money from wealthy donors to hide Edwards’ pregnant mistress. Young also testified about the decision to claim paternity of Edwards’ child.

Edwards is accused of masterminding a plan to use secret payments from two wealthy donors to hide Rielle Hunter during his run for the White House in 2008.

Edwards’ attorneys say he didn’t know about the money. They got Young to acknowledge much of the money went to build his dream home.

Edwards has pleaded not guilty. If convicted, he faces up to 30 years in prison.

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