News In Brief

Philadelphia police officers found guilty of taking payoffs

Seven former Philadelphia police officers, including the former deputy commissioner of the department, were convicted Friday on charges of accepting $ 350,000 in payoffs.

A US District Court jury, reviewing 47 separate felony charges, deliberated about seven hours over two days before finding the men guilty on all counts of racketeering, extortion and conspiracy.

In addition, former deputy commissioner James Martin and chief inspector Joseph DePeri were convicted on obstruction of justice charges for trying to hinder the federal investigation.