Ex-Enron CEO pleads not guilty to fraud and insider trading

0 Comments | AFP, February, 2004

HOUSTON, United States (AFP) — Former Enron CEO Jeffrey Skilling pleaded not guilty to 36 counts of fraud and insider trading relating to the collapse of the Houston energy trader and was released on five million dollars' bond.

The 50-year-old, who was led to US district court in handcuffs, made no comment outside court, but his lawyers vigorously protested his innocence.

"Jeff Skilling has nothing to hide. He didn't steal. He didn't lie. He didn't take anyone's money," said Dan Petrocelli.

"In the 60 pages of charges filed by the US government, they don't even accuse him of these things, and it's not for lack of trying," he continued.

"I guess they need a scapegoat, and I guess Jeff Skilling is their scapegoat."

Skilling has steadfastly...