Mark Mandell took a firm stance
against the felony charges brought against Paul Seewald, who previously pleaded
guilty in November to nine misdemeanor counts of falsely signing a nominating
petition as a circulator. Judge Marie Braxton ultimately determined, however,
that “there was no conspiracy involved” – dismissing the felony charges of
conspiracy against both Seewald and Don Yowchuang in what’s believed to be the
most extensive petition fraud case ever charged by the state.
“Why would they do it? Why would
they take such a chance?” Mandell asked, pointing out the nature of the
petitions. Rather than plotting to fraudulently doctor petition signatures, the
men’s actions possessed a last minute-like
quality: “a series of decisions during panicked moments.”
The felony count could have cost
both men up to five years behind bars. Now, while the staffers may not be
facing prison time for their actions, their pleas for misdemeanor charges have
resulted in repercussions: Seewald has been sentenced to two years of probation
while Yowchuang will serve three. Both ex-staffers will also be required to
fulfill countless hours of community service.
Attorney General Bill Schuette
responded to the sentencing: “The message here is very clear – if you break the
law, there are consequences. We’ll review the dismissal of the conspiracy
charge and make a decision about appeal.”
Mandell, however, said that “the
attorney general overreached by charging low-level staffers with felonies to
look tough on election law. The fact is, Mr. Seewald is not guilty of a felony.”
Seewald, while thankful for the community support that he has received, said
that he now must look to the future in an attempt to rebuild a life – and image
– left damaged by the scandal.
To learn more and read the
original article, please visit: http://www.detroitnews.com/article/20130118/METRO01/301180405/1361/Ex-McCotter-staffers-seek-to-have-fraud-charges-dismissed
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