Prosecutors ask to use Smith statements at trial

Prosecutors want to tell jurors about the alleged incriminating comments state Rep. Derrick Smith made to authorities as they questioned him about supposedly taking a bribe.

A government filing in federal court says that after the Chicago Democrat's arrest in 2012, he waived his right to remain silent and cursed as he told investigators he'd messed up by accepting a $7,000 bribe.

The Chicago Sun-Times says defense attorneys want the judge to bar those statements during Smith's trial. They claim he made the remarks as part of a plea negotiation.

The trial's set to start May 28. The judge has yet to rule on the matter.

Smith pleaded not guilty to taking a bribe in exchange for recommending a state grant to help a daycare center.