A former judge says the Star does a disservice by saying assistant UA basketball coach Emanuel “Book” Richardson, with Talbott Denny last season, could get a long prison sentence if convicted in a bribery case.
As a former federal prosecutor, defense lawyer and Pima County Superior Court judge with more than 10 years of experience on the criminal bench, I believe the Star does a disservice to its readers by publishing articles stating that UA assistant basketball coach Book Richardson is facing up to 60 years of imprisonment and a $1.5 million fine if convicted.
While technically true, this rather sensational statement of his maximum sentencing exposure should be accompanied with the additional information that such a sentence is highly unlikely. The reality is that federal judges are bound by U.S. sentencing guidelines. The offenses lodged against Richardson are rather petty when compared to the severity of other crimes typically charged in federal court. Should he be convicted, his previous exemplary record, community and family support, general good character and remorse would make him a very good candidate for probation with little or no incarceration.
Charles S. Sabalos
Foothills
