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Aide close to star witness in McDonnell case
http://hamptonroads.com/2014/06/aide-close-star-witness-mcdonnell-caseAide close to star witness in McDonnell case
By Alan Suderman
The Associated Press
© June 5, 2014
RICHMOND
Former Virginia first lady Maureen McDonnell's chief of staff kept hidden a close relationship she had with a company's CEO who is the star witness in the corruption case against McDonnell and her former governor husband, according to court documents filed Wednesday.
Defense lawyers submitted a draft letter written by Mary Shea Sutherland to former Star Scientific CEO Jonnie Williams. The lawyers want a judge to approve subpoenas seeking other communications between the pair.
Sutherland said in the letter that she and Williams had numerous breakfast meetings and conversations via text message about leaving McDonnell's office and working for Williams. She said she kept those communications secret at Williams' request.
Former Gov. Bob McDonnell and his wife were charged in January of improperly helping Williams promote his company in exchange for more than $165,000 worth of loans and gifts. The McDonnells have pleaded not guilty and Williams is expected to be a key witness in their July trial.
