Talansky questioned again in Olmert corruption probe
American financier suspected of transferring cash-filled envelopes to PM questioned just two days before court expected to hear his preliminary testimony
American financier Morris Talansky, a key witness in the ongoing bribery investigation against Prime Minister Ehud Olmert, was questioned once again at the National Fraud Unit headquarters in Bat-Yam on Sunday.
The Jerusalem District Court is expected to hear Talansky's preliminary testimony this coming Tuesday.
He is expected to meet with senior State Prosecution officials on Monday as preparation for his scheduled court appearance the following day. It is estimated that Olmert's attorneys won't cross-examine Talansky during Tuesday's hearing.
Olmert himself was questioned by Fraud Unit investigators for the second time on Friday. The prime minister was reportedly cooperative, but failed to explain several key points, claiming he does not recall details.
Olmert denied the allegations that Talansky funded several of his private trips abroad and that he helped the American citizen advance arms deals in South America. The investigation is focusing on cash-filled envelopes that were transferred to Olmert by Talansky and what the American financier may have received in return.
Meanwhile, a senior source at the State Prosecutor's Officer told Yedioth Ahronoth on Sunday that the State is expected to finalize an indictment against by the end of the summer.
