Pate takes witness stand

Louise Alexander before court this morning.

Developer Stan Pate, the state's pivotal witness, appeared in court this morning to testify that Bessemer Councilwoman Louise Alexander had in fact solicited more than $15,000 in money for various city and school projects.

Pate said Alexander originally wanted $22,000 for one school, but he agreed to give $8,000.

Only after talking with school officials did he realize there might be a problem.

At that point, according to his testimony, he called Attorney General Troy King's office.

Defense attorney U.W. Clemon began cross examination shortly before noon, but Circuit Judge Teresa Petelos decided to break for lunch because Clemon said he would need at least one hour.

—Tribune staff report