Former Ald. Michael McGee said last week that he will accept responsibility for his actions when he is sentenced next month for bribery and extortion.
“I first want to express my complete regret, sorrow, and responsibility for the charges I was recently convicted of,” he said in a 12-page letter to US District Judge Charles N. Clevert. “At sentencing, I will publically acknowledge my role as well as write you.”
McGee last month asked to be released pending his Oct. 24 sentencing. The US attorney’s office opposes the request.
McGee said in his latest letter that defense lawyer Calvin Malone did not present critical information.
“If you, or previous judges would have had all facts surrounding allegations that my behavior is indicative of a dangerous individual, I believe I would be out on bail,” he wrote.
McGee, whose extra-marital activities are a matter of public record, said he is a “family man – who has made mistakes in my marriage. I am not a rough, disrespectful, or violent person. I have dedicated my whole life to creating an atmosphere of peace and respect for each other – amongst individuals. I am not a drug dealer or gang member, nor am I loosely affiliated with illegal enterprises. I have, as well as my family — suffered through this whole experience humiliation.”
McGee, in his letter, discusses Jack Adel, a key government witness. McGee denies that he tried to block a block party organized by Adel and another figure in the case against him.
“The block party in question was requested at the same intersection where a twelve year old was killed in a hit and run accident,” McGee said. “Out of respect for the public and neighborhood outcry for traffic signals and safety precautions at the aforemention intersection, I respectfully requested that the planned event be moved to a block not widely traveled; or to the neighborhood school’s playground.”
McGee also denied ordering a “hit” on a man suspected in a break-in, and said slang language he used in conversation was taken out of context.
“Your honor, I have suffered greatly both physically and pyschologically since my incarceration on May, 28, 2007. I have been housed in three (3) facilities, and kept in the ‘hole’ for seven (7) months because of the ‘high’ profile nature and protection of my person. I have lost over 30 pounds and contracted shingles.”