Libby Trial Judge Writes Memorandum Outlining Reasons Behind Decisions On Evidence
WASHINGTON (CNN) -- The judge in the criminal trial of Lewis "Scooter" Libby is making it clear for the historic record that he thought the defendant would take the stand, and that the presumption figured strongly into his decisions about classified material he would have allowed into evidence.
U.S. District Judge Reggie Walton also suggests the defense could have improved the prospects for acquittal of their client had they called Vice President Dick Cheney to the stand.
The jury has deliberated eight days so far on a five-count indictment against Libby, Cheney's former chief of staff.
Walton's comments were made in a "memorandum opinion" written to "memorialize" the basis for some of his decision-making during the trial. Although somewhat unusual, the written record elaborating on bench discussions may help an appeals court explore his decisions should any jury verdict be challenged. --From CNN's Paul Courson (Posted 2:06 p.m.)
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