Beavers says he'll testify to govt 'tall tales'

CHICAGO (AP) — An old-school Democrat remains as defiant as ever as his federal tax-evasion trial resumes.

Cook County Commissioner William Beavers told reporters after a first day of proceedings Monday that he'll testify at his Chicago trial.

A jury should be chosen by Wednesday. The trial was delayed for months after a defense lawyer fell ill. Beavers has pleaded not guilty to diverting campaign money for personal use without reporting it.

Outside court Monday, the 78-year-old Beavers referred to prosecutors when he proclaimed, in his words, "I've got to tell what these people are all about." He accused prosecutors of telling "tall tales" and added he's "gotta straighten them out."

He's accused prosecutors before of charging him because he refused to wear a wire in another investigation. Prosecutors denied any vindictiveness.