The LuLac Edition #1766, September 22nd, 2011

PHOTO INDEX: SENTENCING.

CONAHAN SENTENCING

Friday September 23rd is the day of reckoning for former judge Michael Conahan. His storybook ride in the Judicial and political system in Luzerne County is coming to an end. Fresh out of law school, Conahan, utilizing the connections and power of his father, a former Hazleton Mayor became a District Justice. He spent about three terms in that capacity until he beat Joseph Musto, brother of Senator Ray Musto in a race for Common Pleas Court Judge. When Musto was appointed to fill a vacancy, Conahan screamed nepotism and won a dual nomination to join the Court. Conahan then served as President Judge and was widely regarded as the true power broker under the dome. When the Federal investigation began, Conahan played it like a hot poker hand staying one step ahead of the gathering political storm. He “retired” before he was charged in the corruption probe taking out the money he contributed to his own pension. He copped a plea in January of 2009 with his fellow Judge Mark Ciavarella. It was expected that he would serve 7 years. However Judge Edwin Kosik withdrew the plea agreement because of Ciavarella’s loquacious behavior and Conahan’s supposed noncooperation. While Ciavarella went full boar on a trial, Conahan decided to try and cut his losses by cutting a deal, providing information and “working this whole thing out”. Conahan enters the Courtroom Friday morning with a few things in his favor. He has kept his mouth shut, cooperated with authorities and according to people I’ve talked to, not been combative with the government lawyers and investigators. In the Ciavarella trial he (Conahan) was portrayed as the mastermind. A few local attorneys I’ve talked to are expecting a sentence of under 20 years. Editor's note: Parole is not an option in the federal system). Thanks to my poster #1 for emphasizing that. Most say his cooperation has to count for something. Mayne. This is after all Judge Kosik. It will be interesting to see what sentence will be meted out. We’ll be there in the morning and provide information later on in the day on LuLac and on WYLN TV 35. There will of course be reaction from all sectors. The most interesting will be the reactions of Mark Ciavarella currently ensconced in a federal prison in Illinois and former power broker and big shot Bob Powell. After tomorrow morning, we'll see how well a poker player Mike Conahan really is.
Corrected version.