Monday, December 1, 2014

Former Mingo County Commissioner Wants Prison Sentence Vacated



A former Mingo County commissioner who pleaded guilty to extortion wants his prison sentence vacated.

The Associated Press reports David Baisden is asking a federal judge to throw out the 20-month prison sentence he was given in January.

A court filing says he thought he would get probation instead of time in prison after he pleaded guilty. He says in the filing he doesn't believe his lawyer argued the sentencing correctly.

Baisden admitted to demanding Appalachian Tire sell him tires for his personal vehicle at a discounted price only available for government vehicles. When the company refused, Baisden steered the county's contract to a different company.

Baisden also agreed to pay restitution, but argues now that he shouldn't have to.