Ex-Rep. Brown asks judge for leniency in sentencing

Still maintaining her innocence and fighting to stay out of prison, former U.S. Rep. Corrine Brown and a group of her supporters on Thursday tried to convince a judge that the collective good of her long political career outweighed 18 felony convictions.

Federal prosecutors painted a much different picture.

They described Brown as recalcitrant and unapologetic, a trusted leader who abused the power of her office for years to criminally enrich herself — and then repeatedly lied on the witness stand and disparaged the country’s judicial system to evade accountability for her actions.

In light of her conviction and continued refusal to admit guilt, prosecutors argued she should serve no less than five years behind bars and as much as nine years.

“She ran for office to be a leader of American democracy while she stole money in a multitude of ways,” said Assistant U.S. Attorney A. Tysen Duva. “She was a historic figure. She was a trailblazer. She has positive things to point to, but what it can’t do is overshadow the offense.”

U.S. District Judge Timothy Corrigan will sentence Brown on Dec. 4.

The hearing Thursday served as an opportunity for prosecutors and Brown’s legal team to argue for what they believe to be an appropriate punishment for her convictions on charges involving wire and mail fraud, concealing income and filing false tax returns.

Brown’s attorney, James Smith, is fighting for probation. He argued Brown’s public service and tireless advocacy afford her the right to stay out of prison, which also would allow her to continue helping her community.

Brown spoke to the judge during the hearing, asking him to consider “all that I’ve done in my life.”

“I am 71 years old. I just had a birthday,” she said. “I humbly ask for your mercy and compassion.”

Brown was convicted of leading a criminal conspiracy to use a fraudulent charity, One Door for Education, as her personal slush fund.