Former Virginia GOP Gov. Bob McDonnell and Wife Indicted for Illegal Gift Acceptance

Former Virginia Gov. Bob McDonnell and his wife, Maureen McDonnell, were formally charged on Tuesday with illegally accepting a variety of gifts from a wealthy businessman who sought special treatment from the state government in exchange.

The gifts received from Richmond-area businessman Jonnie R. Williams included luxury vacations, loans, and even the catering fees for McDonnell’s daughter’s wedding. Authorities allege that the McDonnells helped promote Williams’ struggling dietary supplement business in exchange for the gifts.

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Both McDonnell and his wife were charged with 14 felony counts including making false statements to a federal credit union. Maureen McDonnell is also charged with obstructing an investigation.

“I deeply regret accepting legal gifts and loans from Mr. Williams, all of which have been repaid with interest, and I have apologized for my poor judgment for which I take full responsibility,” McDonnell said in a statement released following the indictments were announced.

“However, I repeat emphatically that I did nothing illegal for Mr. Williams in exchange for what I believed was his personal generosity and friendship,” the statement continues.

[Photo via AP]

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