12/28/12 - A Brighton money manager accused of using his marketing skills to fool investors out of millions won't be allowed to personally question them at his fraud trial. Federal judge Paul Borman has denied John Bravata's request to cross-examine witnesses, saying he has excellent attorneys who can handle the job. The government opposed Bravata's effort to question witnesses, with prosecutors saying he shouldn't be given a "soapbox" in front of jurors. Bravata, of Brighton Township, is charged with securities fraud, conspiracy to commit fraud and money laundering. Authorities say he collected $53 million from clients that was supposed to be invested in real estate, but was instead used for personal expenses including jewelry and travel. Bravata denies any wrongdoing or fraud and says he invested the money in real estate that simply turned sour during the Great Recession. He was jailed in May of 2011 after authorities said he had a strong motive to flee the country. Also charged is his son Antonio and Bravataâs business partner, Richard Trabulsy, who previously entered a guilty plea to wire fraud and is expected to testify at the trial. It has been delayed multiple times but is currently scheduled to start January 28th in Detroit federal court. (JM)
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