Former Virginia Gov. Bob McDonnell will remain free while he appeals his corruption convictions, a federal court ruled today. [read_more]
The 4th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals in Richmond said McDonnell’s appeal raises a substantial question of law or fact that “if decided in favor of the accused” is “important enough” to warrant reversal or a new trial.
The court also said McDonnell isn’t a flight risk or a danger to others and that the appeal isn’t just a delay tactic. It ordered that briefs in the case be filed by March 2 and set a May 12 hearing.
6 comments
This is very good news, I don’t condone what McDonnell did, but he has been punished enough and hopefully all Republicans in office will learn from his mistakes. We all should be praying for healing for this family.
Great news.
This was absolutely the right call to make. The idea of denying bail while appealing his conviction was ludicrous. It sounded to me like the judge was pretty sure he knew his jury instructions were going to be overturned on appeal and wanted to make sure that Bob McDonnell served jail time.
This ruling by the Fourth Circuit will not be the last one that goes against the judge. I think it sends a pretty clear message that they will most likely throw out McDonnell’s conviction as well.
can you imagine his relief? whew
No doubt this was the happiest day McDonnell has had in a long time.
And Maureen’s relief too. This makes it unlikely she will go to prison during her appeal.