US: Anti-gay former Virginia Governor found guilty of corruption
Virginia’s anti-gay former governor has been found guilty of multiple corruption charges.
Bob McDonnell, who was Governor from 2010 until January this year, fought against marriage equality while in office, and repealed an order protecting Virginia state workers from discrimination.
The Republican was today found guilty on 11 various corruption and fraud charges, while his wife, Maureen McDonnell, was found guilty of obstructing the course of justice.
Mr McDonnell was accused of performing favours in exchange for more than $165,000 in gifts and loans, though the pair were both acquitted of some charges, including lying on loan applications.
Sentencing, which is set to take place in January, could see the former governor serving jail time.
Current governor Terry McAuliffe said in a statement: “I am deeply saddened by the events of the trial that ended in today’s verdict, and the impact it has had on our Commonwealth’s reputation for honesty and clean government.
“Dorothy and I will continue to pray for the McDonnell family and for everyone who was affected by this trial.”
Virginia Democrats exec Robert Dempsey said: “We need to hold our elected leaders to the highest possible ethical standards in order for the people of Virginia to trust in the administration of our Commonwealth’s government.
“We are truly saddened by this outcome, but it is our sincere hope we can put this episode behind us and move the Old Dominion State forward.”
