UPDATE: Samir Cabrera takes the stand

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UPDATE: Samir Cabrera takes the stand

The defendant in a big real estate fraud case took the stand in his own defense.

By WINK News

Story Created: Jan 12, 2009 at 3:01 PM EDT

Story Updated: Jan 12, 2009 at 8:06 PM EDT

1/12/2009 6PM
Mike Walcher, WINK News
FORT MYERS, Fla. - Samir Cabrera testified in federal court on Monday. He is charged with 12 counts of defrauding investors on local land deals.

It was a highly charged and emotional day in court.

On the stand, Cabrera defended the "kicker fees" he paid to himself and to his fundraisers. He said they were doing an enormous amount of work and that people need to be compensated.

The judge listened as Cabrera blamed everyone but himself for the failures and problems of his company.

Also, when asked about his various properties and companies going into default and foreclosure Cabrera said, "I feel like a loser."

He denied defrauding anyone.

Cross examination will wrap up on Tuesday morning.

Both sides have been told to be ready for closing arguments.


1/12/2009 12 NOON
FORT MYERS, Fla. - It could be the biggest day of testimony in the fraud trial of Samir Cabrera. The Lee County man has taken the stand to testify.

Cabrera began speaking at about 11:40am Monday. So far he has testified to his background.

Before Cabrera spoke, Lee County Manager Don Stilwell testified. Stilwell denied knowing that Cabrera was receiving “kicker” fees in the flipping of the land.
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