Meehan: Verdict Sends Unclear Message

PHILADELPHIA - Former U.S. Attorney Pat Meehan says Vince Fumo's 55-month prison sentence sends a "disparate message" across the Commonwealth to those in public service who break the law.

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Meehan vowed to crack down on government corruption while he was chief federal prosecutor; Fumo was one of his targets.

He spoke to Fox 29's Bruce Gordon shortly after the judge's verdict was announced Tuesday evening.

"Well, I think people are dramatically surprised by the judge's verdict. It just seems remarkably out of context with what we have seen, sentences given to [former city treasurer] Corey Kemp, to [former City Councilman] Rick Mariano," said Meehan. "I think the jury spoke unambiguously. The original sentencing recommendation between 22 years and to come in at 4 1/2 years, it's just a gross departure."

Fumo, a 66-year-old long-powerful Democrat in Philadelphia and Harrisburg, was convicted on 137 fraud, obstruction and tax-evasion counts after a five-month trial.

A jury found the former Pennsylvania senator misused millions in state and nonprofit assets. Fumo survived two earlier indictments in his 30-year political career.

In addition to his four years and seven months prison sentence, Fumo must also pay about $2 million in restitution.

U.S. District Judge Ronald Buckwalter reduced Fumo's term based on his public service. The guideline range had been about 10 to 12 years.

Pat Meehan says Fumo is getting less prison time than others sentenced for public corruption in Philadelphia in recent years. Former city treasurer Corey Kemp is serving 10 years for taking bribes; a 6 1/2-year term was given to former City Councilman Rick Mariano.

"I think people are, look, people are pleased that justice has been realized with the conviction," continued Meehan. "But I think the jury was very clear in their message and the consistency now on what kind of message this sends to people in public service who break the law. Vince Fumo chose to steal $2 million dollars. The jury found that beyond a reasonable doubt. He abused his office and then when caught, obstructed it, this investigation remarkably. And those factors now are all the kinds of things that I think are going to send a disparate message across the Commonwealth."

Meehan served as U.S. Attorney for seven years and is currently in private practice.