Judges in Supreme Court showed sympathy to former Virginia Governor Bob McDonnell in his trial related to public corruption. The judges were questiong the sope of federal laws that prosecutors used to convict McDonnell and the impact in other contexts and cases.
Justice concerned about how public officials must cross the line before conducting official act that could trigger corruption statutes. Chief Justice John Roberts according to CNN, pointed out that former White House counsels on both sides of the aisle are concerned that if the lower court decision is upheld it would, "cripple the ability of elected officials to fulfill their role in a representative democracy."
Another judge, Justice Stephen Breyer concerned that Justice Department could wield enormous power and the prosecutors could be overly zealous. He expressed his concern repeatedly about how the law could put to risk to the most mundane political favors which has been a common behavior for politicians in the United States.
Furthermore, Justice Breyer said as NBC reported, if the government's view of federal bribery laws is upheld, it could be a potential crime whenever a member of Congress writes a routine letter on behalf of someone who bought lunch.
"That would be a crime? My goodness," Judge Breyer said.
Lawyer for US Justice Department Michael Dreeben as Reuters reported, told that justices overturning McDonnell's conviction and giving politicians more leeway to accept gifts in return for certain actions would be a "recipe for corruption." While lawyer for McDonnell, Noel Fransisco argued that there is no different between his client's conduct with what politicians do on a daily basis all across United States. Particularly in responding to request from donors and constituents.
During trial, prosecutor described the lifestyle of McDonnell was because of Virginia businessman Jonnie Williams, who provided gifts and facilities. That includes designer clothing and shoes, a $6,500 Rolex watch, $15,000 for their daughter's wedding, golf outings and more gifts.
Nevertheless, both liberal and conservative justices raised concerns about the Justice Department's interpretation of U.S. bribery law. Justice Elena Kagan also questioned the prosecutors to define the line between exercising influence and simply "providing access."
Former governor Bob McDonnell was elected the 71st Governor of Virginia and taking office from 2010 to 2014. He advocated privatization and promoted offshore drilling for Virginia. In January 2014, the federal government charged him and his wife of corruption for receiving gifts from political donors.
In September 2014, Eastern Virginia District Court found him guilty of public corrpution charges and in January he was sentenced to two years in prison. Later on the US Court of Appeals and United States Supreme Court ordered him to remain free pending appeal.
US Supreme Court showed sympathy for former Virginia Gov. Bob McDonnell in his trial. Judges were questioning prosecutors and scope of federal laws they used to convict McDonnell.
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