Prosecutor questions motives of ex-governor, wife in final arguments of corruption trial

Former Virginia Gov. Bob McDonnell arrives at federal court in Richmond, Va., Thursday, Aug. 28, 2014. The prosecution in the McDonnell corruption case begins its rebuttal Thursday. (AP Photo/Steve Helber) (The Associated Press)

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Former Virginia first lady Maureen McDonnell holds hands with her son Bobby as they arrive at federal court in Richmond, Va., Thursday, Aug. 28, 2014. The prosecution in the McDonnell corruption case begins its rebuttal today. (AP Photo/Steve Helber) (The Associated Press)

Former Virginia first lady Maureen McDonnell, second from right, holds hands with her son Bobby McDonnell, right, as they arrive at federal court followed by daughter Cailin Young, left, Rachel McDonnell, second form right, and attorney Heather Martin, center, in Richmond, Va., Thursday, Aug. 28, 2014. The prosecution in the McDonnell corruption case begins its rebuttal today. (AP Photo/Steve Helber) (The Associated Press)

RICHMOND, Va. – Prosecutors are asking jurors to focus on two questions at the corruption trial of former Virginia Gov. Bob McDonnell and his wife, Maureen.

In their closing arguments Friday, prosecutors' asked the panel to think about why a Virginia businessman gave the couple more than $165,000 in gifts and loans, and why the McDonnells accepted.

Prosecutor David Harbach says there was a "corrupt understanding" and the McDonnells needed money because they were badly in debt. He says they were willing to undertake official acts to help former Star Scientific Inc. CEO Jonnie Williams.

The McDonnells are charged in a 14-count indictment and could face decades in prison if convicted. McDonnell testified in his own defense and said the couple extended courtesies to Williams like any other elected official would.