The first Congressman to fall as a result of the Abramoff Scandal, Rep. Bob Ney, R-Ohio pled guilty today to charges of conspiracy and making false
statements to investigators. He faces up to 10 years in federal prison. Sentencing is set for January 19, 2007.
www.nctimes.com
Beleaguered GOP leaders said Ney will be expelled from the House if he doesn't quit by the time they return to Washington after the Nov. 7
elections.
Appearing before Judge Ellen Segal Huvelle on charges of conspiracy and making false statements, Ney acknowledged taking trips, tickets, meals and
campaign donations from Abramoff in return for official actions on behalf of his clients.
Ney, an Ohio Republican, faces up to 10 years in prison. The Justice Department recommended 27 months behind bars. Ney's lawyers plan to recommend
him for a Bureau of Prisons alcohol treatment program, which could cut dramatically the time he serves behind bars.
Huvelle set sentencing for Jan. 19.
Speaker Dennis Hastert has called on Ney to resign, as did White House spokesman Tony Snow, who said Ney's criminal activity "is not a reflection of
the Republican Party."
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I tell you, Congress is unraveling like a ball of yarn in the paws of a playful kitten.
It seems our federal government is about to come apart at the seams with all the revelations of lies and conspiracy and influence peddling.
If this keeps up, we will be hard pressed to present a quorum on the floor of the House.
Btw, I don't see how Mr. Ney's alcoholism, or his treatment for it, is a factor in his sentencing.
[edit on 13-10-2006 by Icarus Rising]