Judge postpones decision on campaign indictments (DeLay cronies)

[sonias]

http://www.statesman.com/metrostate/content/auto/epaper/editions/thursday/metro_state_2428ff59139cc1c300e2.html
State District Judge Bob Perkins on Wednesday postponed a decision on whether two political consultants can be prosecuted on money-laundering charges arising from the 2002 legislative elections.

Lawyers for Jim Ellis and John Colyandro, consultants with Texans for a Republican Majority, asked the judge to set aside the indictments against them. They argued, among other things, that the election code is unconstitutional and that money-laundering is a cash-only proposition and doesn't apply to the $190,000 corporate check that is photocopied in the indictment.

(snip)Perkins delayed his decision until June 27. His decision is expected to be appealed, and the issue would have to be resolved before any trial can begin.(/snip)

I can't believe they're still using the defense tactic, that a check is not cash. Later on in the article we get this little gem:
As for money-laundering, Pauerstein said the Legislature used the word "cash" in the statute only because "criminals don't use checks."

Criminals don't use checks, got that folks. So if you want to launder money just make sure to write checks when you do it, and then it's all legal.

:rofl:


Sonia

[redqueen]

1. Wow... they're really desperate...

I find it reassuring if that's the best defense they can muster.

:)

[BrightKnight]

2. Cash is an accounting term.

"Definition:
The value of assets that can be converted into cash immediately, as reported by a company. Usually includes bank accounts and marketable securities, such as government bonds and Banker's Acceptances. Cash equivalents on balance sheets include securities (e.g., notes) that mature within 90 days."

http://www.specialinvestor.com/terms/2345.html

Are coins cash?

Next they will be arguing that the did not have access to a washing machine.