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FBI: State Paid for Purchases Billed to Fumo Group

Thursday, Jan 8, 2009 | Updated 5:09 PM EST

An FBI agent testifying in the corruption trial of former state Sen. Vincent Fumo says a state grant paid for many of the household items charged to a Fumo-linked charity.

Agent Brian Nichilo says the state grant paid for thousands of dollars spent on home repairs, hardware and even Sports Illustrated for Kids. The 65-year-old Fumo then had a young daughter.

The Philadelphia Democrat is charged with defrauding the state Senate, the South Philadelphia charity and a museum of more than $3.5 million. He has pleaded not guilty.

Jurors on Thursday heard Fumo in a 2004 "Radio Times" interview say he got no money or benefits from the charity.

The defense is expected to start its case later this month.