Fraud statute weighed in probe of anti-crime unit (Kathleen Kennedy Townsend,Maryland))

Baltimore Sun ^ | August 27, 2002 | Gail Gibson

[Donald Stone]

Authorities investigating a Maryland anti-crime agency overseen by Lt. Gov. Kathleen Kennedy Townsend are evaluating whether criminal charges could be brought under a broadly drawn law designed to protect the vast sums of money distributed each year through federal programs, sources and legal experts said.

The statute has been widely successful in public corruption cases in other states. It makes it illegal for an agent or employee of a local agency that receives U.S. dollars to use the money for any purpose other than for what it was intended. Sometimes referred to simply by its criminal code number - 666 - the law carries penalties of 10 years in prison and $100,000 fines.

[Donald Stone]

Stealing money from the U.S. government, the favorite sport of Maryland's elected and appointed officials, and organized crime syndicates with direct ties to the Maryland Attorney General, Joseph Curran Jr. and the FBI in Maryland.

[cajungirl]

Are you saying Maryland's FBI office is crooked?

[Donald Stone]

Yes !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

[Donald Stone]

David B. Irwin, a Baltimore attorney, said the statute appeared to be "right on the mark."

"It may not be obvious, because we don't know the ins and outs of what they're looking at," said Irwin, who has represented a number of high-profile, white-collar criminal defendants and previously served as a federal prosecutor. "But I guarantee you, if you do anything wrong or immoral, they can find a federal statute that covers it."

From Irwin's website:

David B. Irwin, founder of Irwin Green & Dexter and senior partner is co-counsel for Linda R. Tripp. Recognized as one of Maryland’s most respected criminal defense attorneys, Mr. Irwin’s illustrious career brings a wealth of expertise and experience to her defense team.

[mssnoop]

I like the reference to the law which is "Not widely used in Maryland; Criminal code is meant to protect use of funds." I think not widely used is probably an understatement. Maryland supports the good ol' boys with federal funds.

I would be amazed if anything comes of this - it might set a precident!

Best regards,

MJC

[Donald Stone]

I think Irwin may have handed Maryland State Prosecutor, Montanarelli his posterior in the Tripp case, LOL !!!!!!

In the hands of Maryland State law enforcement agencies the Maryland Criminal Code is used primarily to obstruct justice.

[oiljake]

the demo rats will bury this she is Kennedy they think laws are made for other people if this had been a rep. they would have already put the roop over the tree