Watch CBS News

Kilpatrick Trial In Detroit On Hold Until Nov. 13

DETROIT (WWJ/AP) - The federal judge presiding over former Detroit Mayor Kwame Kilpatrick's corruption trial says it will likely be delayed until Nov. 13.

The trial has been on hold while a defense lawyer recovers from a health problem.

Judge Nancy Edmunds says Gerald Evelyn is "recovering, but slowly. He's weak and needs rest." Evelyn represents Kilpatrick's friend, Bobby Ferguson, who was a Detroit contractor.

Edmunds said the trial could possible resume a bit earlier, maybe later next week, if Evelyn's doctor gives him the all clear.

Evelyn was rushed to a hospital Monday after asking for a break while questioning a witness.

Another attorney on the Ferguson team, Michael Rataj, said Evelyn doesn't have any major medical problems, but wouldn't be more specific. He said Evelyn is doing great and getting stronger by the day.

"He's a warrior  Gerald wants to get back into the game and he wants to, you know, continue this trial," said Rataj."But he also understand that right now he needs to take care of himself and that's what he's doing."

The trial started Sept. 21 and could stretch into the new year.

Ferguson, Kilpatrick, Kilpatrick's father, Bernard, and former Detroit boss Victor Mercado are charged with a racketeering conspiracy and other crimes. Kilpatrick quit the mayor's office in 2008 in a different scandal.

(TM and © Copyright 2012 CBS Radio Inc. and its relevant subsidiaries. CBS RADIO and EYE Logo TM and Copyright 2012 CBS Broadcasting Inc. Used under license. All Rights Reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. The Associated Press contributed to this report.)

View CBS News In
CBS News App Open
Chrome Safari Continue
Be the first to know
Get browser notifications for breaking news, live events, and exclusive reporting.