44 Former State AGs Call For Review Of Siegelman Case

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44 Former State AGs Call For Review Of Siegelman Case
By Laura McGann - July 16, 2007, 12:49 PM

The movement for a review of Gov. Don Siegelman's (D-AL) case is picking up steam. Forty-four former state attorneys general are now calling on the House and Senate Judiciary Committees for an investigation into whether his corruption prosecution was politically motivated.

In a petition (available here) the former top state lawyers asked for a full review of the proceedings, noting a half dozen reasons the case raises suspicion.

In an unusual sentencing phase, the prosecution pressed for a 30-year prison term and the judge denied bail as the former governor awaits his appeal. (Siegelman was ultimately sentenced to seven years in prison.)

The attorneys also point to an affidavit filed by Republican lawyer Dana Jill Simpson as possible evidence of political interference. In her sworn statement, Simpson recounts a 2002 teleconference with some of her fellow Bob Riley (R-AL) campaign workers, where they discussed using the justice system to get Siegelman to back down from contesting the election results. Republican operative Bill Canary mentioned talking with Karl Rove about getting the Justice Department to investigate Siegelman, according to Simpson.

The document was not entered as evidence during Siegelman's trial, but his lawyers said they are considering using it as grounds for a new trial or in a habeas petition.

Rep. Artur Davis (D-AL) has also cited Simpson's affidavit in asking the House Judiciary Committee to look into Siegelman's case.

Simpson recently said she stands by her statement.