(Updated: 8:55 am, 9/9) – DOJ Will Not Retry Governor Bob McDonnell
Both NBC News4 in Washington and the Washington Post have confirmed that the Department of Justice will end the years-long prosecution of Governor Bob McDonnell, following the Supreme Court’s decision tossing out his conviction.
#BREAKING: Justice Department will NOT retry Frmr Va Gov. Bob #McDonnell sources say @nbcwashington pic.twitter.com/D9MW1pWTit
— Julie Carey (@JulieCareyNBC) September 8, 2016
The decision finally puts to rest years of political persecution of the McDonnell family, and hopefully will finally close the door on this chapter of Virginia’s history.
Updated (8:55 am, 9/9): Former Gov. McDonnell’s Statement.
Updated (4:45 pm):
“Three years ago, when so many people were running away from my friend Bob McDonnell, I instead helped to set up his Legal Defense Fund and stand with him during this difficult time. Some people told me I was crazy, but I couldn’t reconcile the Bob McDonnell I had known for years with the allegations made against him. It has been such a long road for him and the McDonnell family. I’m grateful his conviction was overturned UNANIMOUSLY by the US Supreme Court and even more grateful for the Department of Justice to drop all charges. Prayers answered and hopefully this incredible dark chapter in their lives and for Virginia can be closed.” – Del. Jason Miyares, (R-Virginia Beach)
Updated (3:15 pm):
“My first, and overwhelming, emotion is that of relief. Relief for the governor and the entire McDonnell family. My second thought, at least right now, is I sincerely hope that after this long and painful three years, folks will take some time to remember all the good Bob McDonnell has done for Virginia. This is a guy who always went above and beyond to serve others. He started a statewide food drive that is still going strong today. Created the Wall of Honor to memorialize those who have died in the War on Terror. Created a Disaster Relief Fund so that Virginians could donate to help one another when tragedy struck. Those three specific actions were nowhere to be found in his job descriptions. But he always wanted to help others and he made those initiatives happen. He’s a good man. I really hope that basic fact is not lost.” – Tucker Martin, spokesman for the McDonnell Administration, 2009-2013
