McDonnell’s appeal to remain free denied

Former Virginia Governor Bob McDonnell’s request to remain free while his sentence is appealed has been denied. According to lawyers, his appeal on his corruption convictions could take almost as long as his prison sentence itself. His attorneys argued that requiring McDonnell to serve the bulk of his sentence before it is resolved would deprive him of a meaningful appeal. They also said that the appeal will raise fundamental questions, including whether the government’s interpretation of an official act is even entirely accurate. Prosecutors say McDonnell’s case wasn’t compelling enough to granting his request for bail pending appeal. McDonnell and his wife were found guilty of taking gifts and loans from a vitamin executive in exchange for promoting his products. He was sentenced January 6. McDonnell will have to report to prison next month, but can appeal.