More than 90 potential jurors were interviewed Monday as the federal tax fraud trial of New Orleans District Attorney Jason Williams got underway. The selection process is still in its early going for the trial that U.S. District Judge Lance Africk says should take two to three weeks.
The government accused Williams and his business partner, Nicole Burdett, of conspiring to hide income from the IRS to avoid paying taxes.
Both defendants say they are victims of an unscrupulous tax preparer. They claim Henry Timothy lied about being a certified public accountant and acted without their knowledge or approval. Timothy pleaded guilty and is cooperating with prosecutors.
Williams, who ran for district attorney as a progressive criminal justice reformer, has said the charges against him are politically motivated.
Monday's proceedings ended without a jury having been seated. Jury selection will resume Tuesday.
