Grand jury probes what Edwards knew about spending

WASHINGTON – A federal criminal investigation targeting John Edwards is examining how much the two-time presidential candidate knew about money used to cover up his extramarital affair and out-of-wedlock child and whether he had other practices that pushed the bounds of campaign finance laws.

People involved in the case have told The Associated Press that a federal grand jury meeting in Raleigh, N.C., is combing through records and testimony involving several political organizations and individuals connected to Edwards. The grand jury is trying to determine if the former North Carolina senator and 2004 vice presidential nominee broke any laws.

The case largely stems from money spent to keep Edwards' mistress, Rielle Hunter, in hiding along with former campaign aide Andrew Young.