The defense closed their argument in the trial of former Penn State Nittany Lions defensive coordinator Jerry Sandusky on Thursday with closing arguments from lead defense attorney Joe Amendola. According to StateCollege.com, Amendola blamed Victim 1 for the chain of events that led to 52 charges (now 48) of sexual abuse against Sandusky and the firing of Penn State head coach Joe Paterno.
Amendola reportedly told the jury that Victim 1 exaggerated claims of sexual abuse because he preferred to spend time with his friends instead of Sandusky. After telling his mother, the situation evolved into a ploy to gain financial benefits. From StateCollege.com:
"We believe there was a push when [alleged victim No. 1] came forward," Amendola said. "This is a public figure. Let’s see if we can get more kids. Let’s see if we can move forward."
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