Congressman Michael Grimm Expected To Plead Guilty In Tax Fraud Case
Those who reelected Congressman Michael Grimm on the expectation that he would be convicted of tax fraud and forced to resign might be getting their wish this Christmas.
Grimm will change his plea to guilty in his federal tax evasion case, reports the New York Times – a surprising turn of events considering how adamant the congressman was about his innocence during his reelection campaign.
If you recall, Grimm campaigned on a promise to resign if he was convicted of the 20-count tax evasion charges related to an Upper East Side fast-food restaurant he ran before starting his political career. The only way he won the congressional seat is because he ran against Democrat Domenic Recchia who managed to fumble several media appearances.
Michael Grimm’s lawyer confirmed to news outlets only that a plea change hearing was scheduled for today.
Mr. Grimm is expected to plead guilty to a single count of aiding or assisting in the preparation of a false or fraudulent tax return, said one person with knowledge of the matter, who, like the two others, spoke only on the condition of anonymity because the agreement has not been announced. If he does plead guilty, he will most likely face 24 to 30 months in prison when he is sentenced by Judge Pamela K. Chen of United States District Court. His lawyers can also seek a lesser sentence, including one with no jail time.
Observers expect that it will be difficult for Grimm to hold on to his seat in Congress (an editorial in the New York Daily News already celebrates Grimm’s departure). Still, Grimm told reporters that he would not resign following his courthouse appearance this afternoon, and, in fact, would only be required to resign if he receives a prison sentence.
However, it is unlikely that Grimm will end up serving any jail time, experts told the Staten Island Advance. They predict that Grimm’s military and FBI history will work in his favor:
A defendant’s entire life is evaluated, to include his criminal history, employment history and family circumstances, said Duval.
Also considered are the severity of the crime, its impact on the community and the need for further deterrence.
Grimm’s lack of criminal history bodes well for him; however, the amount of money he allegedly withheld from the government could work against him, said Fonte.
While public officials are typically held to a higher standard, experts said that wouldn’t apply here, because the tax evasion occurred before Grimm ran for office.
Instead, Grimm will likely be forced pay the government a fine and restitution.