Pombo Should Return Tainted Money From Lobbyist Involved in "Conspiracy to Corrupt" a Congressman

Press Release - 5/10/2006

Pombo Should Return Tainted Money From Lobbyist Involved in "Conspiracy to Corrupt" a Congressman

Jerry McNerney, candidate for the 11th Congressional District today called on Richard Pombo to return the $1,000 that he received from Neil Volz who yesterday pleaded guilty to conspiracy and fraud before a Federal judge. Volz faces up to five years in prison and a fine of up to $250,000.

"Richard Pombo should return this tainted money immediately," McNerney said, "and explain to California voters what his relationship was with disgraced lobbyist Neil Volz."

Neil Volz admitted that he "participated in a conspiracy to corrupt Congressman Bob Ney (R-Ohio), his staff and other members of Congress with trips, free tickets and meals." Volz was previously employed by convicted felon and Pombo donor, Jack Abramoff.

Richard Pombo has accepted two $500 donations from Volz. Pombo first accepted $500 from Volz on January 27, 2003 and last year on April 21, 2005.

"To clean up Washington, Congressman Pombo needs to do two things: One return the tainted money that he has once again taken. And number two, vote for real ethics reform, not the dog and pony show that masquerades as an ethics reform bill," stated Jerry McNerney.

"The corruption in Washington is costing Californians at the gas pumps, in the air we breathe and the water we drink and in the cost of health care and prescription drugs. This 'pay to play' system in Washington is hurting California families and I say enough is enough."

http://www.jerrymcnerney.org/press_story.asp?id=8