Even if a U.S. jury deliberating the fate of Conrad Black decides to acquit him, the toppled media mogul is likely to spend a lot more time in court.
The jury began deliberating on Wednesday on 13 counts of fraud, racketeering, obstruction, and tax violations that could imprison the 62-year-old Black for the rest of his life and drain what remains of his fortune with fines and forfeitures.
On hold until the criminal case concludes are additional lawsuits involving the Canadian-born Black, a member of Britain’s House of Lords.
He faces a $542 million damage suit filed against him and other former executives by Hollinger International Inc., the company he once headed that has since been renamed the Sun-Times Media Group (SVN.N: Quote, Profile , Research). The action accuses them of negligence, breach of contract and “unjust enrichment.”
In addition, the Chicago-based company is footing the bill for Black’s defense, but could demand its money back if he is found guilty.
Black is also involved in a number of other suits, including one he filed against the U.S. government over its seizure of some of his assets. He has said if he is acquitted he may file suits of his own related to the case or against those who have written about him.
