Surprise: Unbiased Judge Denies Bail For Libby

...despite the fact this is very shaky conviction and an extremely shaky sentencing and stands a fair chance of being overturned.

Former White House official Lewis "Scooter" Libby has been told he cannot delay starting his jail term while he appeals against his conviction.

...

Ahead of the hearing, US District Judge Reggie B Walton had indicated he saw no reason to grant Libby's request for a delay in starting his jail term.

Giving his ruling on Thursday, he said: "Unless the Court of Appeals overturns my decision, he will have to report."

Libby's lawyers will now go to an appeals court to seek an emergency order delaying his prison sentence. They are also appealing against Libby's conviction.

...

Before giving his ruling, Judge Walton said he had received "harassing, mean-spirited" letters and phone calls, targeting him and his family, since sentencing Libby to jail.

The Bush Administration is meanwhile making no noises about a pardon or commutation. Quite the opposite, in fact, stating that Libby should appeal.

From jail, I guess.

Thanks to Chad.

Not that it's a major concern to me, but it does seem that pardoning Libby is one of the few things Bush could accomplish that would actually shore up his support among Republicans.

And yet he continues pandering to his perceived base -- liberal Democrats and the MSM.

posted by Ace at 03:30 PM

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