ATLANTIC CITY — Ten people in New Jersey have rejected plea deals and will stand trial on ballot fraud charges.

Atlantic City Councilman Marty Small and the others told a judge on Monday they knew they risked long prison sentences if they're convicted.

Prosecutors said "autograph parties" were held in which absentee ballots were steamed open and replaced or destroyed.

The charges stem from Small's failed primary bid to seek the Democratic nomination for mayor in 2009. Incumbent Lorenzo Langford beat Small and a third candidate.

Under terms of the plea deal, Small was offered a sentence that likely would have had him out of prison after a year and a half.

Small was acquitted of similar charges two years ago and he has said he will fight the latest charges.

Previous coverage:

• Judge won't dismiss Atlantic City ballot fraud charges

• Atlantic City mayoral vote probe widens to more campaign workers

• Atlantic City campaign worker admits role in absentee ballot fraud case

• Atlantic City campaign workers appear in court for corruption cases