Ney of Ohio — first Congressman in Abramoff gang to plead guilty
Republican Rep. Bob Ney of Ohio pleaded guilty
Friday to federal charges in the congressional investigation into corruption and
bribery involving disgraced lobbyist Jack Abramoff, according to the Justice
Department.
Republican Rep. Bob Ney of Ohio pleaded guilty Friday to federal charges in the congressional investigation into corruption and bribery involving disgraced lobbyist Jack Abramoff, according to the Justice Department.
Ney pleaded guilty to conspiracy and making false statements in a deal in which he will cooperate with the Justic Department’s influence peddling investigation.
The Justice Department and Ney’s lawyers agreed on a sentencing recommendation of 27 months in prison, provided Ney continues to cooperate, but the final sentence will be determined by a federal judge.
In May, Ney’s former chief of staff, Neil Volz, also entered into a deal in which he pleaded guilty to conspiracy to commit mail and wire fraud.
In court papers, prosecutors alleged Ney “agreed to take favorable official action and render other assistance on behalf of clients” of Abramoff, who hired Volz as a lobbyist after he left Ney’s staff.”
All of the “honorable men” who share Ney’s baggage — from ideology to ethics — will now declare their surprise and compassion.
Posted: Fri - September 15, 2006 at 03:02 PM