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Gov. McDonnell will Remain Free During Appeal

CBN

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Former Virginia Gov. Bob McDonnell will not have to report to jail next month. A federal court ruled this week that he can remain free on bail while he appeals his conviction.

McDonnell was set to begin his two year sentence on February 9 after a jury found him guilty of taking money and gifts in exchange for promoting a dietary supplement while he served as governor.

The former governor's attorneys asked if he could remain free throughout the process, claiming the appeal could take almost as much time as the sentence itself.

Earlier in January, U.S. District Judge James Spencer refused McDonnell's previous request to remain out on bond. On Monday, the 4th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals in Richmond overturned that refusal, claiming McDonnell isn't likely to flee or pose a threat to the safety of another person.

His appeal "raises a substantial question of law or fact that, 'if we decided in favor of the accused' is 'important enough' to warrant reversal or a new trial," the court said.

This decision is a meaningful victory for McDonnell's defense and shows that a higher federal court might see merit in granting an appeal.

McDonnell released the following statement Monday:

"I am grateful for today's ruling by the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Fourth Circuit allowing me to remain free on bond pending my appeal," McDonnell said in statement after the ruling.

"I plan to spend time with my new granddaughter who was born this month, attend my sons' graduation ceremonies, and embrace family time with my daughters," he said. "I want to thank my family, friends, and legal team for their tireless support and unwavering belief in my innocence. At this time our family requests privacy."

The next hearing for the case is set for May 12.

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