Ex-NY Senate leader Skelos, son plead not guilty to latest charges over bullying accusation

A former New York state Senate leader and his son have pleaded not guilty to the latest charges against them in a corruption case.

Dean Skelos (SKEH'-lohs) and his 33-year-old son, Adam, entered the pleas Thursday at their arraignment in Manhattan federal court.

They've been free on bail since their May arrests.

Dean Skelos was the state's most powerful Republican before stepping down from the leadership position after his arrest on conspiracy and extortion charges. He retains his Senate seat.

Prosecutors say he took official actions so his son could receive over $300,000. The latest indictment expands the accusations to say the men bullied a malpractice insurance company into giving the son a no-show job.

Skelos has said he and his son will be vindicated.