Witnesses Give Details of Deputies’ Spending

An array of bank officers, real estate agents, car salesmen and other business representatives took the stand Friday in a federal money-skimming trial as prosecutors sought to show the spending habits of seven Los Angeles County sheriff’s deputies.

The narcotics officers, accused of skimming $1.4 million during drug raids, allegedly spent much of that money on vacation homes, automobiles, jewelry, landscaping and other luxuries, according to prosecutors, who also subpoenaed numerous bank records and invoices.

But in questioning witnesses, defense attorneys contended that although deputies made tens of thousands of dollars in purchases--much of it in cash--they did nothing illegal and made no effort to conceal those financial arrangements.

The defendants, all veteran narcotics deputies, have pleaded not guilty to conspiracy, tax evasion and other federal charges. Their trial resumes Tuesday.