The Fourth Circuit for the U.S. Court of Appeals has upheld the indictment of Rep. William “Bill” Jefferson (D-La.) on bribery and corruption charges.  The decision clears a path for his trial.  Last week, Jefferson won re-election from New Orleans and Jefferson Parish voters in a race against Helena Moreno, a former broadcaster.   

The ruling from the Fourth Circuit for the U.S. Court of Appeals today might speed up Jefferson’s trial but he could also appeal the Court’s ruling.  Jefferson also faces competition again remaining candidates for his first Congressional seat. 

Jefferson faces 16 counts of bribery, fraud and racketeering and has faced allegations of his hiding $90,000 in cash in his freezer.

Jefferson's has alleged that federal prosecutors had improperly used “privileged information” under the Speech or Debate Clause to get his indictment. In February, District Judge T.S. Ellis III, denied Jefferson's motion to dismiss the indictment which prompted the Fourth Circuit appeal.  Ultimately, on various issues, Jefferson could appeal Court decisions to the Supreme Court which could further delay his trial.  

Louisiana is not the only state in which a member of the US Congress has faced legal challenges.  Recently, Sen. Ted Stevens, the Alaska Republican was convicted of seven felony counts last month, and faces committee expulsion possibilities should he prevail at the polls.   Jefferson was stripped of his seat of the powerful Ways and Means committee upon indictment.

 Advertise on Bayoubuzz.  Be seen by a great audience
Louisiana Calendar  Post your own events.  Over 1000 visitors/day
Join BayoubuzzDance.com & input your own content

Sign up for our Email Newsletter

Do you want to write for Bayoubuzz?  Email us.
See the "hot" topics on our discussion boards and chime in