Accusations Fly in Trial of Wisconsin Campaign Workers

The case involving 4 Kerry campaign workers vandalizing election vehicles last November was full of drama.

The defense lawyers for Sowande A. Omokunde, Michael Pratt, Lewis Caldwell, and Lavelle Mohammad claimed their clients were innocent. They stated that a group of Democratic operatives led by Oppel Simmons performed the crime in question and led authorities in the direction of their clients.

The Defense then got desperate. They hinted that the Republican Party cut the tires to implicate the Democrats. When this tactic didn't work they claimed that John Sweeney, AFL-CIO president and witness in the case, coordinated efforts to use violence as an intimidation tactic across the country.

Even though this crime happened in the 2004 elections, it could have ramnifications in 2006. Omokunde is the son of Congresswoman Gwen Moore (D).

Normally she would be safe as an incumbant since she took almost 70% of the vote in '04. But the defense of her son pointed fingers at both the Democratic party and Democratic supporters. Never bite the hand that feeds you.

The defendants made a plea deal.