Created: 7/2/2009 11:46:28 AM 
Yanceyville, NC -- Former North Carolina state Sen. Hugh Webster has taken the stand in his own defense at his embezzlement trial, saying $12,000 from his aunt was a gift. Webster testified Wednesday in his Caswell County trial. The Times-News of Burlington said the trial would continue Thursday. Prosecutors argue Webster's aunt, Doris Nance, gave him the money to invest for her but he didn't return it when asked. Webster said Nance was getting rid of assets so her ex-husband could qualify for Medicaid. Webster said he got worried he was getting caught up in government fraud when she later asked for $5,000 back. Webster served in the state Senate for 12 years and ran unsuccessfully for Congress last year.
AP
