NJ charter jet trial for 2 execs goes to closings

NEWARK, N.J. – A jury is hearing closing arguments in the fraud and conspiracy trial of two co-founders of a charter jet company whose clients once included the rich and famous.

Brothers Michael and Paul Brassington are charged with conspiracy to defraud and lying to authorities. Michael Brassington also is charged with endangering the safety of an aircraft.

Their company, Florida-based Platinum Jet Management, once flew celebrities such as Jay-Z, Beyonce, Keith Richards and Duran Duran.

They were indicted last year after an investigation spurred by 2005 crash at Teterboro Airport that injured 20 people.

The trial has lasted three weeks. On Friday, the trial judge dismissed charges against a third defendant.