Federal prosecutors say a former Mingo County judge should receive a lengthy sentence because he abused his power and damaged the county’s judicial system.
Former Circuit Judge Michael Thornsbury is asking for leniency in sentencing. Thornsbury’s lawyers say he has cooperated with an ongoing federal corruption investigation in the county.
Both sides filed sentencing recommendations in federal court this week. Thornsbury is scheduled to be sentenced June 9.
Thornsbury pleaded guilty last year to conspiring to deprive George White of his constitutional rights.
Prosecutors say Thornsbury railroaded a defendant in his court to further his own political interests.
Thornsbury’s lawyers say the impact of his conviction already has been overwhelming. His wife divorced him, he lost his law license and his pension, and someone burned down his parents’ home place.