Legal Commentary

Sam Riddle Arraigned in Detroit Corruption Case

By Jeralyn

The Detroit corruption case that snagged Monica Conyers, wife of Rep. John Conyers, continues to grow. Political adviser Sam Riddle (well known in Colorado for his representation of the family of Isaiah Shoels, a student killed at Columbine) and his significant other, Mary Waters pleaded not guilty to corruption charges in federal court Thursday. The charges were expected and both have maintained their innocence, reportedly refusing to consider plea offers. Ms. Waters' attorney, Todd Flood, had a great line after court:

Asked how Waters is holding up, Flood replied, "She continues to inspire me."

Riddle said:

"I will not be a fall guy for the privileged or well-connected."

After his arraignment, he tweeted:

My arraignment in Fed Ct was intense-had to take deep breath to respond to judge. My lawyer David Stiengold w/30 years fed exp chills me out.”

As to the charges:

[Riddle] was charged in two indictments with 10 criminal counts that include conspiracy, bribery, extortion, mail fraud and making false statements to the FBI. The most serious charges carry 20-year penalties.

Waters is charged in one indictment with one count of conspiracy and two counts of bribery. The most serious charges carry 10-year penalties.

Full post as published by TalkLeft on July 19, 2009 (boomark / email).