Roanoke Times
Copyright (c) 1995, Landmark Communications, Inc.
DATE: THURSDAY, June 21, 1990 TAG: 9006210158
SECTION: VIRGINIA PAGE: B-1 EDITION: METRO
SOURCE: By Associated Press
DATELINE: NORFOLK LENGTH: Medium
In April, a jury found Campbell guilty of malfeasance in office and forgery and recommended he be sentenced to four years in prison.
Prior to hearing evidence in the sentencing, Judge William Sweeney of Lynchburg threw out the malfeasance conviction.
"I am now convinced . . . that as a matter of law that the malfeasance charge and the felony forgery charge cannot stand [together]. Basically, the charges are for the same offense," he said, ruling that that violated Campbell's protection against double jeopardy.
Sweeney said he knew he would be criticized for whatever he did, but was willing to accept the criticism.
On March 20, 1989, then-Virginia Beach Commonwealth's Attorney Paul A. Sciortino was in a traffic accident and issued a summons for an illegal left turn. Sciortino also was in a re-election campaign in which his driving record was an issue. When the ticket later came to light, Sciortino withdrew from the race.
On March 24, Sciortino pleaded guilty to the charges in Campbell's chambers and was fined $30 and court costs. Five minutes after he paid his summons, Sciortino's name was altered on a copy of the summons and on the computer records.
The prosecution claimed Campbell ordered court clerks to make the changes. The defense said Campbell was just joking and was misunderstood by the clerks.
Campbell, 61, had no comment following the sentencing. He is on paid leave from his $79,000-a-year post while he appeals the conviction.
by CNB