Rubashkin trial canceled Monday; wife says he's ill

The child labor trial for Sholom Rubashkin has been canceled for Monday because of an apparent medical issue.

Rubashkin's wife, Leah, said he had been complaining of a bite or some type of infection on his arm since last week.

The infection apparently became worse over the weekend, and Rubashkin, 51, who has been staying at the Linn County Jail in Cedar Rapids during the trial, was taken to a hospital.

His wife said she hasn't been able to talk to him.

His attorneys and prosecutors were trying to determine his exact location and condition earlier this morning. The Linn County Jail still has Rubahskin listed as “in custody” this morning.

Following a brief meetings in the judge's chambers, a court attendant told those in the courtroom there would be no proceedings today. Trial is expected to continue Tuesday.

After the meeting, defense attorney Montgomery Brown said he can't discuss Rubashkin's situation or his location.

Last week, Judge Nathan Callahan told jurors they wouldn't have to report Wednesday and Thursday because of the Jewish Shavuot holiday. He said attorneys will be in court those days to go over jury instructions.

Rubashkin is on trial for 83 counts of child labor violations in connection with 31 minors who were allegedly found working at the Agriprocessors kosher meatpacking plant in Postville. He is also awaiting sentencing on federal fraud charges stemming from bank loans to the plant.

-- Jeff Reinitz, Waterloo-Cedar Falls Courier