Jefferson jurors fill out questionnaires

ALEXANDRIA, Va., June 10 (UPI) -- About 100 potential jurors filled out questionnaires on the first day of the trial of former U.S. Rep. William Jefferson, D-La., observers said.

U.S. District Court Judge T.S. Ellis said in his Alexandria, Va., courtroom that he hoped a jury of 12 and four alternates could be seated by Wednesday, allowing opening remarks in the case to proceed Thursday, The (New Orleans) Times-Picayune reported.

Jefferson, 62, the former longtime New Orleans congressman, arrived Tuesday at the courthouse with his wife, Andrea, and their five daughters, the newspaper said, telling reporters he is confident that his side of the case, in which he faces a 16-count public corruption indictment, will finally be told.

"It is good to have my family with me," Jefferson said, adding that he feels "blessed" to be supported by his relatives as he faces a possible 8- to 20 year prison sentence.

Prosecutors allege Jefferson received payments from businesses in return for his influence as a member of Congress in brokering deal for them in West African nations. The case was sparked by the discovery of $90,000 in cash hidden in Jefferson's freezer nearly four years ago.