U.S. District Judge Myron Thompson handed down sentences July 16 to three men involved in a bingo legislation vote-buying scheme.
According to reports, Country Crossing developer Ronnie Gilley was sentenced to six years and eight months in prison; his lobbyist Jarrod Massey was sentenced to five years and five months; and former state Rep. Terry Spicer, D-Elba, was sentenced to four years and nine months.
Gilley must also forfeit $200,000 to the government, according to reports. The judge ordered Massey to pay a $20,000 fine and Spicer must pay a $40,000 fine.
Both Gilley and Massey had pleaded guilty to charges of bribery and conspiracy, which involved bribing legislators for pro-gambling legislation votes. Spicer had admitted to receiving bribes from the two men when he served as a legislator.
The Birmingham News reported the sentences were handed down following an emotional day of testimony and that the three men expressed remorse for their crimes. “I’m ashamed of myself. I’m not going to sit up here and make up excuses,” said Gilley during the hearing, according to The News.
The Associated Press reported that federal prosecutors had recommended Gilley spend close to 11 years in prison. They recommended that Massey spend a little more than 11 years in prison and Spicer about five years.
The three men remain free on bond and must report to prison Aug. 27.
To read the background of this case and the implications for the state, visit www.thealabamabaptist.org.
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