Blago: 'Never intended' to violate law

NEW YORK, April 23 (UPI) -- Ousted Illinois Gov. Rod Blagojevich, who is under federal indictment, said Thursday he "never intended" to violate any laws.

Blagojevich made the departure from earlier outright denials during an appearance on the NBC "Today" show.

In his first interview since U.S. District Judge James Zagel denied a request that Blagojevich be allowed to travel to Costa Rica to appear on the reality television show "I'm a Celebrity ... Get Me Out of Here," Blagojevich said he "never intended" to do anything wrong.

Blagojevich is accused of attempting to use his appointment powers to win campaign contributions and other favors. Among other things, he was accused of seeking to barter the U.S. Senate seat vacated by President Barack Obama.

Blagojevich has pleaded innocent to the charges.