Government

Abramoff Pleads Guilty to Charges, Makes Deal

January 3, 2006 ⋅  E-Mail Article ⋅  Print Article ⋅ Post a comment

What the GOP has feared most has been realized, lobbyist Jack Abramoff has pleaded guilty to fraud charges, not only this but he has further agreed to help U.S. prosecutors with their probe of recent political corruption that many believe could involve several top Republican lawmakers, one of which is former House Majority Leader Tom DeLay.

Many staunch conservatives have called the Abramoff and Delay investigations ‘Partisan Witch Hunts’, now what will these same individuals say as apologists. Abramoff himself pleaded guilty, the far right has no where to go with this one.

I recall myself one light listening to Sean Hannity defend Delay, he was stating the investigation into Delay was a partisan hack job. I guess he will have his evidence one way or he other as it appears the Justice Department wants Abramoff to advise them of all the influence he used in dealings with Delay.

I am level-headed and listen to both parties. However, when one individual goes to the point of defending un-defendable actions just because the perpetrator is a political party member, I feel that’s too far.

Before a federal judge in Washington, Jack Abramoff entered a guilty plea to the following charges, guilty to conspiracy, guilty to mail fraud, and guilty to tax evasion. Today Jack will reportedly plead guilty to conspiracy and wire fraud charges stemming from a separate investigation in a separate case based in Miami.

Many Republicans felt that Jack would become a hindrance to the GOP, they tried to distance themselves and the party form this individual. However, many very influential lawmakers and congressman kept close ties with this individual; they may now regret not distancing themselves.

The guilty pleas give prosecutors precious ammunition to use in their efforts to prove that Tom DeLay (R)Texas, (R) Bob Ney, and several other lawmakers gave Abramoff and his lobbying clients favorable treatment in return for large political contributions and other assorted repayments and gifts. Reported gifts involved trips, clothing, Super Bowl tickets, extravagant dinners and other gifts.

Attorney General Alice Fisher stated, “Abramoff provided these things of value with the intent and often with the understanding that his clients would receive the official action they wanted…as admitted by Abramoff, his actions often produced the official influence that he sought.”

Republican and Democratic lawmakers have attempted to sever any ties or connection to Abramoff but the damage is most likely done, and now that he has pleaded guilty he will most likely name names in an attempt to reduce his sentencing.

Abramoff, could face up to 30 years imprisonment. However, the plea deal will reduce his sentence to half this time. Many have also advised that the sentence could be further reduced if Abramoff cooperates fully with the Justice department

Abramoff stated, “I have profound regret and sorrow for the multitude of mistakes and harm I have caused. All of my remaining days, I will feel tremendous sadness and regret for my conduct and for what I have done.

Jack Abramoff is a conservative Washington attorney who is also a former lobbyist. Abramoff has been the central figure in a run of political scandals linked to various Republican Party officials.

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