Government wants jury to make decision on Bulger's money

BOSTON (MyFoxBoston.com) -- U.S. Attorney Carmen Ortiz's office says the jury in James "Whitey" Bulger's trial will have to decide on the issue of forfeiture of Whitey's money after a verdict is read.

In a document released Friday, prosecutors say they are seeking to return Bulger's assets to the families of Bulger's alleged victims. They claim the defense is "attempting to dictate which victims can receive such monies." Due to this disagreement in the handling of assets, the decision will be left up to the jury.

The prosecution notes that the government will seek a preliminary order of forfeiture once a decision is made and they will then work with the alleged victims in the case to "resolve the matter."

"In short, it is not up to defendant James Bulger to decide who gets to keep his ill-gotten gains," reads the document.

The defense rested their case in Bulger's racketeering trial Friday after Bulger decided he would not testify. Closing statements are expected to begin Monday.

Cox Media Group