Did Pete Kott influentially change last year's PPT oil tax debate? That was what prosecutors told jurors, while the defense said Kott was simply working legally with VECO officials to get a pipeline.

Prosecutors say, as part of this scheme, Kott knowingly agreed to influence how other lawmakers would vote on PPT, if he could get a VECO job.

Prosecutors say for VECO's Bill Allen and Rick Smith to get the 20 percent PPT tax rate that would make the oil field services company the most money they, "had to get dirty." The feds say Kott was their "go to" man.

As prosecutors made their opening statements they painted a picture of how Kott tried to influence sitting lawmakers. That includes former Juneau Representative Bruce Weyhrauch, who is also charged in this case.

Prosecutors say Kott was successful in rescinding the PPT vote after it passed for a higher value, convincing Weyhrauch to vote, "the right way."

But the defense countered, saying any work Kott did with VECO officials was legal. They told jurors Kott was only working to get the gas pipeline 80 to 90 percent of the state wanted. Since PPT was a producer tax--not a VECO tax -- Kott says when the secret recordings are played they will show there is no bribery or extortion evidence.




To contact Matthew, call 907-273-3186.