There's no bigger story on the back-burner in New Mexico politics than the federal grand jury investigation into the CDR saga going on in downtown Albuquerque. And it continues to go on. We think top players telling us that the probe has been extended for at least another three months--through July--- may be on safe ground. In our last episode of the CDR pay-to-play saga that cost Big Bill a spot in the Obama cabinet, we learned of the all-important statute of limitations.
Federal white-collar crimes normally have a statute of limitations of five years, but it is not unusual for potential defendants in securities or tax cases to waive the statute of limitations to gain time to develop arguments that the activities in question were legitimate. Barring waivers, charges stemming from the GRIP bond investigation would have to be brought by the end of April.
Well, there were no April indictments which is why those saying that the parties involved have agreed to an extension may be on safe ground.
Also, people familiar with the matter are saying they've learned that Richardson's longtime fund-raiser, Amanda Cooper, has been given immunity by prosecutors as they continue their wide-ranging investigation of the Governor's fund-raising from firms and financial agents that did business with the state. In addition to raising money for his governor campaign and serving as deputy manager for his presidential bid, Cooper headed two PAC's for Richardson--Si Se Puede and Moving America Forward. She is the step-daughter of NM US Senator Tom Udall, adding to the political drama.
On Eric Holder:
Other informed speculation we are getting from senior sources says that US Attorney General Eric Holder may be called on to personally examine any potential indictments in the politically potent CDR case. Our legal experts say that would not be unusual. With Republican Greg Fouratt holding the US attorney position, having the Democratic attorney general appointed by Obama pass judgment on any indictments before they are handed down would also be aimed at negating charges of a political prosecution that are sure to arise if indictments hit. But it would seem to be a difficult position for Holder. If he lets indictments go forward, Democrats here could charge he caved to Republican Fouratt. If he doesn't, charges that politics played a role in ending the case will be shouted. Not an enviable position to be in with NM still a possible swing state for Obama in 2012.
This bit of news is quite intriguing, has Holder really put time into checking all of the CDR cases. We have seen pressure put on the Obama admin over Alice Martin, but she still is there and the investigation into Mayor Langford of Jefferson County Alabama, is continuing, even if delayed till August.
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