What's today's news dump? The McDonnell verdict???

[malaise]

http://www.theguardian.com/world/2014/aug/29/bob-mcdonnell-corruption-trial-closing-arguments
<snip>

Former Virginia Governor Bob McDonnell and his wife took bribes and used their political muscle to promote a sketchy nutritional supplement because they were deeply in debt and couldn’t refuse the more than $165,000 in loans and gifts, including designer dresses and a Rolex watch, prosecutors said Friday.

Defense attorneys contended in their closing arguments that McDonnell, once a rising star in the Republican party, made a bad decision but never gave any special treatment to former Star Scientific CEO Jonnie Williams. They said Maureen McDonnell’s acceptance of the gifts may have been “tacky,” but it was not illegal because she was not a public official. The couple also couldn’t have conspired because their marriage was so strained they were hardly talking.

“You’re being asked to render a legal verdict, not a moral verdict,” said Bob McDonnell’s lawyer, Henry Asbill. “Jonnie didn’t get anything. Nothing. This case is all ‘quid,’ no ‘quo.’”

The McDonnells were charged in a 14-count indictment that accused them of conspiracy, bribery and filling out false loan applications. Maureen McDonnell also faces an obstruction charge. If convicted, they could face decades in prison.

McDonnell, once considered a possible running mate for Republican presidential candidate Mitt Romney, was swept into office in a landslide five years ago. He is also a former attorney general and state legislator.

He earlier testified in his own defense, saying the couple did nothing illegal and extended courtesies to Williams like any other elected official would.
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They both took gifts

[louis-t]

1. You might believe this story if they had immediately sold all the gifts.

Alas, they didn't.

[malaise]

3. What I love most about the story is that

Bob really didn't want to drive around the Ferrari he so wanted to drive

[Wellstone ruled]

2. But But

you don't understand. He is a Rethug and Rethugs are upstanding honest folks.
They don't lie or cheat. Much!

[malaise]

4. Bwaaaaaaaaaaaaaaah

Yes indeed just like Sorenson - ReTHUGs are scumbags who love all the trappings of wealth - by any means necessary.

[Rex]

5. Wait...lemme see if I can find it...

[malaise]

6. I thought you were looking for these

[Rex]

7. LOL!

IF ONLY we could get Rick Perry to join them!

[gordianot]

8. I prefer cell mates with Christie first.

[brooklynite]

9. UNREC

Your title implies that the ruling on this case would be managed to minimize publicity. Unless you have ANY evidence to suggest this is the case, that's uncalled for.