A South Texas grand jury has indicted Vice President Dick Cheney and former Attorney General Alberto Gonzales on charges related to the alleged abuse of prisoners in Willacy County's federal detention centers.The indictment criticizes Cheney's investment in the Vanguard Group, which holds interests in the private prison companies running the federal detention centers. It accuses Cheney of a conflict of interest and "at least misdemeanor assaults" on detainees by working through the prison companies.
Gonzales is accused of using his position while in office to stop an investigation into abuses at the federal detention centers.
Another indictment charges state Sen. Eddie Lucio Jr. with profiting from his public office by accepting honoraria from prison management companies.
By the way, not to minimize the national aspect of this story, but the charges against State Sen. Lucio could have a profound impact on the upcoming legislative session. The Democrats will have at least 11 members even without Lucio, but still. If nothing else, it has the potential to really shake up the political structure in South Texas. Stay tuned.
Posted by Charles Kuffner on November 18, 2008 to Crime and Punishment