Justice Department Dismisses Case Against former Virginia Gov. Bob McDonnell

Former Virginia Gov. Bob McDonnell, arrives at Federal Court in Richmond, Va., Thursday, Aug. 28, 2014. The prosecution in the McDonnell corruption case begins it's rebuttal today. (AP Photo/Steve Helber)

RICHMOND, Va. (AP) — Federal prosecutors say they are moving to drop corruption charges against former Virginia Gov. Bob McDonnell.

U.S. Attorney Dana Boente’s office said Thursday that prosecutors will not pursue another trial in light of the U.S. Supreme Court decision in June that overturned the former governor’s corruption conviction.

The court unanimously held that the actions McDonnell took to benefit a businessman who gave him luxury gifts may have been distasteful but did not cross the line into illegal conduct.

McDonnell maintained he did nothing except set up meetings and make some calls for a constituent who asked for help.

The case was returned to a lower court to decide whether there’s enough evidence for another trial. But Boente’s announcement Thursday came before the appeals court made that decision.

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  1. Meanwhile, Don Siegelman languishes in prison very doing much less (actually, nothing).

    The lesson here, once again, is: IOKIYR.

  2. Yep! Republicans skate, Democrats get thrown in jail. Sad, indeed.

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