The prosecution has called its final witness in the trial of former Massey Energy CEO Don Blankenship.
FBI Special Agent James Lafferty was questioned by prosecutors and defense attorneys Tuesday in Charleston, W. Va., federal court. Lafferty is the federal government’s 27th and final witness in Blankenship’s trial.
Blankenship is charged with conspiring to break safety laws at West Virginia’s Upper Big Branch Mine and lying to financial regulators and investors about safety. The coal mine exploded in 2010, killing 29 men.
Lafferty testified about a variety of investigation topics, from Blankenship’s compensation to his frequent receipt of reports detailing Upper Big Branch’s violations.
The trial is in its seventh week. Lafferty will return to the stand Thursday.
It’s unclear how many witnesses the defense will call, or if Blankenship will testify.
Related:
- Mine Worker Talks Safety Shortcuts in Blankenship Trial
- Trial Update: Ex-Massey CEO Blankenship Downplayed Black-Lung Threat to Miners
- Massey Ex-CEO Blankenship Faces Criminal Charges Over 2010 Mine Explosion
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