An Illinois lawmaker has pleaded not guilty to federal charges that accuse him of fraudulently obtaining a $500,000 increase and a two-year extension on a line of credit from a Chicago bank. During an arraignment in Chicago today, attorneys entered the pleas for state Representative LaShawn Ford, who's been indicted on bank fraud and other charges. Smith did not make a statement in court. Authorities contend the Chicago Democrat falsely said he intended to use the money from the failed ShoreBank for work related to his real-estate business. Instead, they allege, he put the money toward car loans and credit cards, as well as payments to a casino and for his 2006 campaign. Ford has said he didn't break the law and looks forward to the truth being told.
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