Wright accused of hiding gifts
Tuesday, August 26th, 2008
By Staff
State: Legislator obstructed justice
RALEIGH - Prosecutors began laying out a case Monday that former state Rep. Thomas Wright concealed more than $100,000 in campaign contributions over seven years — sometimes on purpose — so that voters would not know who his supporters were.
In response, Wright's attorney argued that he was only sloppy and that he violated no laws.
Wright, a Democrat from Wilmington, is on trial for obstruction of justice. He was once among the most powerful lawmakers in the General Assembly and a top ally of former House Speaker Jim Black, a Mecklenburg County Democrat.
In March, fellow lawmakers expelled him for violating ethics rules — the first expulsion in North Carolina since the 19th century — and a month later a jury convicted him of fraud.
A conviction for obstruction of justice could add at least four months to a prison sentence that is already scheduled to go through May 2015.
After the selection of a jury and brief opening statements Monday, two investigators testified about Wright's campaign finances.
Johnnie Umphlet, an agent with the State Bureau of Investigation, said he interviewed Wright twice in September and October last year. Among the questions Umphlet said he asked was whether Wright had ever commingled campaign money with personal money.
"His response was that that may be improper but not illegal," Umphlet testified, "and that he had an answer for that but he would save it."
Umphlet testified that Wright never gave an answer. (more…)
Last 5 posts in Daily News
- N.C. speeds up building projects to create jobs - January 7th, 2009
- State fast-tracks bonds for A&T, UNCG State fast-tracks bonds for A&T, UNCG - January 7th, 2009
- Council of State has some giggles on way out - January 7th, 2009
- Keeping N.C. colleges affordable - January 7th, 2009
- Freeman promises to 'get it right' - January 7th, 2009
Email This Post
Print This Post
