Katopodis trial jury selection ongoing

BIRMINGHAM, Ala.—-The jury is still being selected in federal fraud trial against John Katopodis.

The former Birmingham City Councilman and Jefferson County Commissioner is accused of misusing tax money given to a non-profit group designed to give computers to children.

Opening statements and testimony are expected to begin this afternoon.

The Jefferson County Commission gave $815,000 Computer Help for Kids between 2002-2007.

Katopodis is accused of spending $9,300 of the non-profit’s money at 4 different casinos and more than $30,000 on personal credit card accounts.

Katopodis founded the non-profit with. HealthSouth founder Richard Scrushy and now-Birmingham Mayor Larry Langford.

Katopodis has pleaded not guilty in the case.