http://theintelligencer.net/edit/story/013202006_edt01.asp
Today's "Intelligencer Wheeling News-Register:"
Demand Facts From Abramoff
The Intelligencer
Jack Abramoff may be close to signing off on a plea agreement that at least could begin the process of answering a lot of questions about several members of Congress. Specifically, the questions involve whether lawmakers who received favors and money from Abramoff were merely gullible - thinking there were no strings attached to his largess - or aware that the ex-lobbyist was attempting to buy influence.
The sooner those questions are answered - or at least addressed - the better. One of the congressmen involved is U.S. Rep. Bob Ney, R-Ohio. He benefited from donations and favors bestowed by Abramoff and another lobbyist, Michael Scanlon. Ney has insisted that he was as much a victim as anyone else of the lobbyists' underhanded dealings.
Cases involving Abramoff, Scanlon and others are extremely complicated. They include allegations that Abramoff defrauded Indian tribes of millions of dollars while he was representing their interests. Allegations that Abramoff and Scanlon influenced members of Congress improperly also have been heard. Scanlon pleaded guilty to some charges in November.
It was reported last week by The Associated Press that federal prosecutors and Abramoff may be near to a deal whereby the ex-lobbyist would enter a plea to some criminal charges. In exchange, of course, prosecutors would expect Abramoff to cooperate in their investigation of any others, including congressmen, involved in wrongdoing.
We hope such a deal is arranged quickly. And we hope that prosecutors insist on full disclosure by Abramoff concerning his ties to lawmakers. The sooner the facts of the case are known, the better.