Helmsley Will Not Stand Trial: A federal...

Helmsley Will Not Stand Trial: A federal judge ruled that New York real estate magnate Harry Helmsley cannot stand trial on tax fraud charges later this month because of poor health. U.S. District Judge John Walker concluded after hearing medical testimony that Helmsley, 80, apparently has suffered a series of small strokes that caused “substantial brain damage.” The judge said that as a result of his deteriorating condition, Helmsley would be unable to aid in his own defense. Helmsley’s wife, Leona, 68, and two former aides are scheduled to go on trial later this month on charges that they conspired to evade taxes on $4 million spent on the Helmsley’s Connecticut estate by claiming that the money was a business expense.