Despite a unanimous Supreme Court decision vacating former Virginia Gov. Bob McDonnell’s conviction on corruption charges, state officials plan to recommend putting him on trial again, according to a news report.
A spokesman for the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Virginia contacted by the Washington Examiner declined to confirm the report, which first appeared in the Washington Post.
McDonnell was convicted in 2014 on federal corruption charges stemming from his relationship with businessman Jonnie R. Williams. Williams provided gifts, including a Rolex watch, to the governor and his wife, Maureen, who was also convicted of corruption, in exchange for official meetings aimed at benefitting Williams’ business.
The Supreme Court tossed out Gov. McDonnell’s conviction, arguing McDonnell did not perform any official acts in exchange for the gifts from Williams.
Whether a second trial takes place will depend on the Justice Department, which has the final say in the matter.
