Rezko Shows Up

Rezko shows up, pleads not guilty. Sun Times:

Rezko's appearance in federal court Thursday obliterated speculation that he was on the lam in the Middle East.

And it sparked even more speculation on whether Rezko would cooperate with the ongoing federal investigation of the Blagojevich administration as the pressure on him is ratcheted up.

The indictments last week against Rezko -- a chief fund-raiser for the governor and a trusted adviser -- marked the closest the feds have come yet to Blagojevich's inner circle.

Tribune:

The governor has distanced himself from Rezko in recent days, insisting his trust was betrayed and that he had no knowledge of Rezko's actions. Sources with knowledge of the case have said Rezko sought a $1.5 million campaign contribution for Blagojevich in lieu of one secret kickback.

According to both stories the prosecutors seem eager to share their evidence with Rezko. They have tapes.

Related posts: Those Charitable Dem Politicians, Governor's Pal Indicted.

UPDATE: In case you missed it, this detailed analysis by Reverse Spin.