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Opening statements were heard on Thursday, Nov. 14, at Central Islip federal court, after Spota and his aide, Christopher McPartland, allegedly used their power to help cover up the crime of an associate.
It is alleged that Spota and McPartland obstructed justice by covering for former Suffolk County Police Chief James Burke, who allegedly abused a suspect, Christopher Loeb, in 2012. Loeb had allegedly stolen a duffel bag from an unmarked police vehicle in front of Burke’s home.
Burke served four years in federal prison for violating civil rights. He was released last year. Loeb, a recovering addict, received a $1.5 million settlement from Suffolk County last year as a result of the incident.
The trial is expected to last several weeks. Check Daily Voice for updates as proceedings continue.
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