Feds Want Three to Four Years for Rowland; Defense Argues for Lighter Term

Federal prosecutors want former governor and now twice-convicted felon John Rowland to serve about three to four years behind bars for his most recent conviction.

Prosecutors argued that Rowland has “great political talent,” but that he also disrespects the law, according to the Hartford Courant.

Rowland’s lawyers argued that the correct calculation should mean that Rowland faces a sentence of 18 to 24 months, but argued for even less time due to the unique circumstances of the case, Rowland’s “exemplary character,” and his ability to help others and contribute to society.

Rowland was found guilty by a jury on all seven counts against him in September. He was charged with violating federal campaign finance laws after he consulted for the Lisa Wilson-Foley campaign in her bid for the U.S. House of Representatives 5th District seat. Her husband, Brian Foley testified that he hired Rowland through his nursing home company as a consultant in order to keep Rowland’s involvement in the campaign off the books.

His lawyers also wrote in a court filing that Rowland has no intention to return to politics, according to the Connecticut Mirror. He is scheduled to be sentenced Jan. 7.

Rowland received 90 letters of support that were part of the filing, according to the Mirror. One letter was from singer Michael Bolton, who said Rowland assisted with a charity event.

Read the full Courant story here.

Read the full Mirror story here.

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