U.S. Attorney Carol Lam intends to appeal a federal judge's decision to overturn convictions of former San Diego City Councilman Michael Zucchet. KPBS Reporter Amita Sharma has more.
Last month, Judge Jeffrey Miller acquitted Zucchet on seven counts of extortion and wire fraud. Miller also granted Zucchet a new trial on conspiracy and remaining wire fraud counts but the judge said the evidence on those charges was weak.
U.S. Attorney Lam has filed a notice to appeal the judge's decision. It's now up to the justice department to approve the request. If approval is granted, the case will be presented before the Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals.
A jury convicted Zucchet and former Councilman Ralph Inzunza in connection with taking campaign contributions from a strip club owner in exchange for helping to change no-touch rules at strip clubs.
Meanwhile, the judge has scheduled a hearing Monday to determine if Inzunza and strip club lobbyist Lance Malone, who was also convicted, should remain out on bail pending appeals. Amita Sharma, KPBS News.
