Enron Figure's Wife Seeks Tax Trial Delay

HOUSTON -- The wife of former Enron Corp. finance chief Andrew Fastow wants to delay her trial on conspiracy and tax charges until after her husband's larger criminal case concludes so his testimony can be offered to exonerate her, The Associated Press reported Friday.

Lea Fastow's lawyers said Friday that her husband's testimony is critical. But they said in court filings he can't testify while his own case involving nearly 100 charges is pending unless granted immunity from prosecution for what he might say. Her attorneys acknowledged such immunity is generally frowned upon.

"Her husband would like to testify," said Nanci Clarence, one of Lea Fastow's attorneys.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Andrew Weissmann said Friday Lea Fastow's trial could be delayed for years if her husband is convicted and continues to be unavailable during appeals. Weissmann added Andrew Fastow may seek further delays because wife's trial would start when his case concludes.

-- NYSSCPA.org News Staff

Posted on 06/02/03