Will Fleck Be Called in Fed Ed Trial?

Most of the evidence in the political corruption case against Allentown Mayor Edwin "Fed Ed" Pawlowski has been pretty solid. It's a bit weaker against Attorney Scott Allinson, but I'm not sure the "My client is a drunk" defense is playing very well with the jury. Sam Ruchlewicz was the one disaster. Defense Attorney Jack McMahon had a field day with him. This may have made the feds reluctant to call the other admitted liar, Mike Fleck, to the stand. The theory is that they can rely on wiretaps and recordings without exposing Fleck to McMahon.

This would be a mistake. First, McMahon can simply call Fleck as a witness himself. Second, McMahon could argue, "Where's Fleck?," as the case continues. Third, Fleck is no Ruchlewicz.

he hinted around about that possibility when Celeste Dee, a former Flack employee who is actually a victim in this matter, was called to testify. In response to questioning by McMahon, Dee said no one was closer to Fed Ed than Fleck.

"So he would be the best one to tell this jury what really happened," suggested McMahon. This statement resulted in objections.

McMahon is laying the foundation to attack the government for failing to present the witnesses against Fed Ed.

Though Fleck can be attacked on the stand for his dishonesty, he has admitted tohis criminal behavior and can tell the jury that, unlike Ruchlewicz, he is payng a price. Alos, despite his shortcomings, fleck is a very likable person who could help win the jury over.