Democrat culture of corruption

Ex-Pa. senator convicted of 137 corruption counts
By MARYCLAIRE DALE, Associated Press Writer Maryclaire Dale, Associated Press Writer 19 mins ago
PHILADELPHIA – Vincent Fumo, once one of the most powerful figures in Pennsylvania politics, was convicted Monday of more than 130 counts of corruption for schemes that defrauded the state Senate and others of more than $3.5 million and allowed him to live a lavish lifestyle.
The 65-year-old former state senator was found guilty of all 137 counts against him, which also included obstruction of justice for destroying e-mail evidence. The jury deliberated about the Philadelphia Democrat's fate for about six days after a five-month trial.
Prosecutors are expected to seek a sentence of more than 10 years under federal guidelines, based on the size of the fraud, the obstruction conviction and other factors.
After the verdict was read, Fumo hugged his distraught college-age daughter and his girlfriend before leaving the courtroom.
"Just heartbroken," Fumo said when asked about the verdict as he left the courthouse. His lawyer, Dennis Cogan, said he was disappointed but would appeal.
U.S. District Judge Ronald L. Buckwalter denied a government request to revoke Fumo's bail but planned to hear arguments about possible conditions such as electronic monitoring at a hearing Monday afternoon.
Former Fumo aide Ruth Arnao was found guilty of all 45 counts against her, including defrauding Citizens' Alliance, a nonprofit.

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