Ex-Va. Gov. McDonnell & Wife Found Guilty Of Public Corruption
BALTIMORE (WJZ) — A high-powered couple could be headed to prison. Virginia's former governor and his wife have been convicted of corruption for taking designer gowns, vacations and other lavish gifts from a businessman.
As Rick Ritter reports, the trial that has played out like a soap opera for weeks has finally come to an end.
Bob McDonnell and his wife are charged in a 14-count indictment for promoting dietary pills in exchange for cash and gifts. The two could face decades in prison.
On Thursday, a jury dropped the hammer on former Va. Gov. Mcdonnell and his wife Maureen.
"All I can say is my trust remains in the Lord," McDonnell said while walking out of court.
Once a rising Republican star, McDonnell was found guilty on 11 charges and his wife on eight. Witnesses say the two broke down in tears when the verdict was announced.
"Public corruption is the FBI's top criminal investigative priority," said Adam Lee of the FBI's Richmond field office.
"We're very disappointed, but not deterred -- this fight is a long way from over, " said McDonnell's attorney Henry Asbill.
During the five-week trial, the McDonnell's presented a soap opera like defense. Bob McDonnell claims he and his wife had no communication during the 22-month investigation.
During that time, the couple accepted $165,000 in gifts and loans from a vitamin executive in exchanged for promoting his pills.
McDonnell accepted gifts like a Rolex watch and his wife, $22,000 in designer dresses.
"It's embarrassing to be a member of Virginia," said Virginia resident Ben Brice.
In Virginia, many residents tell WJZ their former governor got what he deserved.
"Personally, I feel a little down," said Virginia resident Nathan Dally.
Many say a corruption trial like McDonnell's should serve as an eye opener for politicians across the country.
Sentencing is scheduled for Jan. 6. The couple could face up to 30 years in prison. The McDonnell's left the courtroom separately and remained apart.
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