Albany, NY – Joseph Bruno, once one of the most powerful political figures in New York, has been sentenced to two years in jail on two federal fraud counts.
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The 81-year-old Bruno was the Republican leader of the state Senate for 13 years, controlling that chamber’s legislation and billions of dollars in spending.
He was convicted last year of using his office to help a businessman who paid him as a consultant and in a horse venture, violations of the federal “honest services” law.
Prosecutors urged eight years in prison, while the defense wanted probation. He has agreed to pay $280,000 in restitution.
The U.S. Supreme Court is reviewing the honest services statute.
Bruno was acquitted of five counts.
Judge Gary L. Sharpe of United States District Court in Albany allowed Mr. Bruno to remain free on bail until the United States Supreme Court reviews the federal statute under which Mr. Bruno was convicted.
Joseph Bruno only Two Years = Make sure your well connected!
ludicrous. shame on you judge for sentencing this man to 2 years of hard time for lying. Like you never lie?
SHAME SHAME SHAME, “Your Honor”
he is a great man, i had the pleasure of dealing with him on many issues, he was always open and honest, i hope and pray that he doesn’t go to jail.
Please send Paterson to jail
Well worth serving to years for all the millions of kickbacks. I’d gladly serve 5 years for the amount of money he got through graft and corruption.
Why is he free for now? He’s not Jewish and therefor not a flight risk. I cant believe this is America.
what a concept? become a big shot politician. cheat and make money. get convicted. get sentenced and DON’T go to jail. But be a regular joe blow and do the same thing, they haul you away. what a beautiful country we live in.
servs him right mr. Bruna start walking a straight line…
It’s amazing he got away with his crimes for so long. He abused his office and his power for personal gain with millions in taxpayer money. What a shame.