US millionaire to testify in Olmert corruption probe

0 Comments | AFP, May, 2008

JERUSALEM (AFP) — US millionaire financier Morris Talansky appeared before an Israeli judge on Tuesday to be questioned under oath as the chief witness in the probe into alleged corruption by Prime Minister Ehud Olmert.

Talansky's deposition -- sworn testimony that can be used later in a trial -- is expected to last until 1300 GMT in Jerusalem district court.

"At this stage it is a preliminary inquiry. The case could develop or it could be closed. There could be other choices," state prosecutor Moshe Lador told reporters shortly before the deposition began.

"I hope that after this testimony, we can make a good decision," he added.

Prosecutors are trying to establish whether Olmert dispensed any favours in exchange for large sums of cash he allegedly...