Did Ex-Alabama Governor Get A Raw Deal?

[davefoc]

The 60 minutes story and video:

http://www.cbsnews.com/stories/2008/02/21/60minutes/main3859830.shtml?source=mostpop_story

One of the sadder stories to come out of the US Attorney scandal. At one time his prosecutor was the wife of his political opponent. Nothing like a little conflict of interest to drive the wheels of injustice.

I doubt if Siegelman will end up serving most of his term. This injustice looks to be too clear cut. But will some people be punished as a result of the abuse of their office? That seems doubtful too. Right now it looks like Bushco manages to survive almost unscathed one of the most straightforward attempts to undermine the rule of law by any American presidential administration.

 

[Boo]

Raw deal... Hmmmm, let's see.

He has been in jail for 7 months now and the judge still has not released the transcripts of his trial which is needed to file for appeal. It is my understanding transcripts are usually released within 30 days to facilitate the appeals process.

There is alleged evidence that jurors were in communication via e-mail with people not on the jury discussing tactics to convince other jurors on what verdict to return, while the trial was in progress. The DA declined to investigate these allegations.

The 60 Minutes story did not air in the northern part of Alabama where the trial took place due to "technical difficulties".

The star witness for the prosecution, a lobbyist, admitted that while he did give gifts to the defendant he gave larger and more valuable gifts to Republican officials. This was stricken from the record by the judge and the jury was told to disregard that information.

After his conviction he was moved multiple times to various facilities within 3 different states in a very short period of time making it difficult for his attorneys to communicate with him.


This deal has been so "raw" that it is a former Republican AG that has been calling for further investigation in the matter.




Boo