Closing Arguments Heard In Case Of Accused Agent

BOSTON -- Closing statements are under way at the racketeering trial of a former FBI agent accused of getting too close to the mob.

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NewsCenter 5's Rhondella Richardson reported that the defense made its closing statement Thursday morning, trying to convince a jury that former FBI Agent John Connolly had not tipped off members of the Boston mob about the identities of informants and impending indictments.

Connolly was the handler for mobsters James "Whitey" Bulger and Stephen "The Rifleman" Flemmi. Prosecutors alleged that Connolly gave Bulger and Flemmi the identities of three informants, who were later murdered.

Former mob hit man Kevin Weeks testified that Connolly was looking for Bulger in 1994 on the day after several FBI agents were confidentially told that Bulger and Flemmi were going to be indicted. Both mobsters fled the area, and Bulger is still on the loose.

Connolly was also accused of accepting bribes. He has denied all the charges, saying that he was always following the orders of his superiors. Connolly did not testify in his own defense.

After a one-hour break, the prosecution was scheduled to give its closing statement. The jury could have the case Thursday afternoon or Friday morning.