By Robert Haugh

Santa Clara Vice Mayor Anthony Becker’s legal team tried to get the felony perjury case against him dismissed yesterday but failed. 

It was a Hail Mary pass that fell way short. 

Judge Javier Alcala denied the mistrial motion from Becker’s legal team.

So the jury started deliberations late yesterday and could decide Becker’s fate today.

The prosecution rested its case earlier this week.  Becker’s legal team of five attorneys presented no case and he did not testify in his own defense.

Becker is being tried for leaking a 2022 Grand Jury report to the 49ers and lying about it.  If convicted, he faces up to four years in prison.

Becker was indicted on April 13, 2022 – 602 days ago. 

Becker waived his right to a speedy trial. At first, Becker told the court he was looking for a new attorney even though he’s had the same public defender since his indictment. 

Some observers considered it a deceptive delay tactic. Throughout the process, Becker has used up a lot of legal resources that are paid by taxpayers.

Becker defiantly refused calls from the public for him to resign after his indictment He’s also collected approximately $44,000 from Santa Clara taxpayers by staying in office.

After his indictment, Becker was “abusive and belittling” at City Council meetings.  That was the conclusion of a Grand Jury report.  Becker also attacked the Grand Jury and residents on numerous occasions. 

In the last two years, Becker has also voted on many items that helped the 49ers, including legal settlements. The team benefitted by millions of dollars because of Becker and the rest of the 49er Five.