Truemors
Eliot Spitzer walks free of his accusations.
Federal prosecutors said Thursday that they will not bring criminal charges against Eliot Spitzer for his role in a prostitution scandal, removing a legal cloud that has surrounded the former New York governor since his epic downfall eight months ago.
U.S. Attorney Michael Garcia said investigators found no evidence that Spitzer or his office misused public or campaign funds for prostitution. Investigators found that Spitzer solicited high-priced call girls, but federal prosecutors typically do not prosecute clients of prostitution rings.
"After a thorough investigation, this office has uncovered no evidence of misuse of public or campaign funds," Garcia said. "We have concluded that the public interest would not be further advanced by filing criminal charges in this matter."
The announcement by Garcia signals the end of the bombshell investigation of Emperors Club VIP and means that nine other men described in an indictment as clients of the lucrative prostitution service also have escaped charges. Those clients were never identified.
Legal experts said that local authorities technically could still charge Spitzer as a john, but that it would be highly unlikely.
A remorseful Spitzer issued a statement in which he expressed relief that he will not face charges.
"I appreciate the impartiality and thoroughness of the investigation by the U.S. Attorney's Office, and I acknowledge and accept responsibility for the conduct it disclosed," he said. "I resigned my position as Governor because I recognized that conduct was unworthy of an elected official. I once again apologize for my actions."
Comments (0)