Ex-Gov. Blagojevich loves the spotlight, but he’ll have to stay closer to home to find it. That’s the reality of it all.
By The Chicago Tribune Staff
CHICAGO — A federal judge today denied permission to former Gov. Rod Blagojevich to travel to Costa Rica to participate in a reality TV show.
U.S. District Court Judge James Zagel called modifying the terms of Blagojevich’s bail on political corruption charges “a bad idea.”
Prosecutors voiced fears that the indicted ex-governor might flee if allowed to go to Costa Rica, noting that he faces 25 to 30 years in prison if convicted.
Blagojevich attorney Sheldon Sorosky said television show producer NBC was willing to pay for two security guards to watch Blagjojevich around the clock. But Zagel noted that such personal monitors would have no authority to arrest him. He also said Blagojevich needs to stick around to read the government’s evidence, because only then will he be able to understand the jeopardy he is in.
