Senate Republican Leader Phil Berger (R-Rockingham) renewed his call, Wednesday, for the appointment of a special prosecutor to investigate possible criminal violations involving former Democratic Governor Mike Easley, former first lady Mary Easley, and others. These investigations involve not only the appointment of Mary Easley to her position at N.C. State University but also flights taken by the Easleys and paid for by campaign donors in violation of campaign finance laws, the “lost” travel records of former Governor Easley from his tenure, and the Cannonsgate land deal. Former Governor Easley served in the position from 2001-2009 and served as Attorney General from 1993 to 2001.
Under North Carolina law, there is no statute of limitations on felonies related to public corruption. However, federal law sets the statute of limitations at five years on these felonies.
“The Attorney General’s failure to carry out his duties and appoint a special prosecutor is a cause for concern for all North Carolina citizens,” Berger said.
“With our state’s recent history of political corruption, with the close political connection among state Democratic elected officials, and with the public interest and concern about these issues, Attorney General Roy Cooper must act immediately to ensure that no instances of public corruption go uninvestigated or unprosecuted. Public officials must be held accountable when they break the law – the federal statute of limitations should not be a get out of jail free card. A special prosecutor can work with the F.B.I. and the U.S. Attorney’s office to ensure that violations of state law will not escape review. The failure of the Attorney General to appoint a special prosecutor makes it likely that violations of state law will go unpunished.”
Editor's Notes: Your blogger refers to Sen. Phil Berger as the "Good Berger", as opposed to Sen. Doug Berger (D-Franklin) who is the "Bad Berger".
NC Senator Phil Berger represents the 26th Senatorial District. He can be reached at:
Phone Number: (919) 733-5708
Address:
1026 Legislative Building
NC Senate
Raleigh NC 27601
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