Washingtonpost.com:
A Virginia state delegate has confirmed that he’s been called to appear next month as a witness before a federal grand jury as part of an investigation related to Gov. Robert F. McDonnell.
Del. David Ramadan (R-Loudoun) declined to comment further, saying that the federal subpoena prohibits him from disclosing its details, which might reveal what authorities are seeking from the first-term legislator.
The Washington Post has previously reported that the FBI has been conducting interviews about the relationship between McDonnell (R) and his wife and the chief executive of a dietary supplement company who paid for the catering at the 2011 wedding of the governor’s daughter. The agents are exploring whether McDonnell assisted the company in exchange for gifts.
Ramadan’s subpoena, however, is the first public indication of the impaneling of a grand jury to review evidence in the McDonnells’ case — a significant escalation in the investigation.
Dave Ramadan is a friend of the Governor and was also a guest at the McDonnell daughter’s wedding. He says he did not give a cash gift to the bride and groom.
Office holders must report all gifts over $50. However, there is no such restriction on gifts to children or spouses. Perhaps Virginia might shore up this loophole immediately. The current law allows for abuse. and favoritism. I suggest the legislature start working on this problem immediately rather than devoting so much attention to women’s reproductive rights and other social issues.
