Former Virginia governor Bob McDonnell was sentenced to two years in federal prison for public corruption. McDonnell was convicted back in September of trading access to the power of the governor’s office for almost $200,000 in loans and high-end gifts. Originally, prosecutors had wanted him to spend more than a decade in prison. Judge James Spencer pointed out that federal officials misinterpreted the guidelines, which in turn lowered the number to 6 ½- 8 years.
Former Star Scientific CEO Jonnie Williams testified against the McDonnell family and was granted immunity. Williams gave the family lavish gifts including a $6,500 Rolex watch and helped finance two beach houses that McDonnell jointly owns with his sister. McDonnell is expected to report to prison by February 9. McDonnell’s wife, Maureen, is to be sentenced February 20. A motion was filed asking Judge Spencer to allow the former governor to remain out of prison on bond. The judge can reconsider or the incarceration could be delayed. McDonnell is the first Virginia governor and the 12th nationally to be convicted of corruption.
