New Hampshire Supreme Court Justice Indicted Over Alleged Case Interference
A grand jury has indicted an Associate of the New Hampshire Supreme Court for allegedly attempting to interfere in an ongoing investigation involving her husband.
Details of the Indictment
The New Hampshire Department of Justice released a statement on Oct. 16, stating that the Merrimack County Grand Jury had indicted Justice Anna Barbara Hantz Marconi on two felony and five misdemeanor charges. All charges are related to her alleged attempts to interfere with the criminal investigation into her husband, Geno Marconi.
Attorney General John Formella stated that the decision to charge a sitting Justice of the New Hampshire Supreme Court was not made lightly, and it was the result of careful and thoughtful deliberation. He emphasized that no person is above the law, and the evidence in this case necessitated an investigation and presentation to the grand jury.
Charges Against Hantz Marconi
According to the New Hampshire Department of Justice, Hantz Marconi has been charged with two Class B felonies, including one count of attempt to commit improper influence, and one count of criminal solicitation of improper influence.
She also faces five Class A misdemeanors, including two counts of criminal solicitation of misuse of position, one count of criminal solicitation of official oppression, one count of official oppression, and one count of obstructing government administration.
One of the indictments accuses Hantz Marconi of trying to solicit New Hampshire Gov. Chris Sununu to improperly influence members of the New Hampshire Department of Justice while they were investigating her husband, who was the director for the New Hampshire Division of Ports and Harbors.
Hantz Marconi allegedly told the governor that the investigation was due to personal, petty, or political biases. She also allegedly stated that the investigation into her husband needed to conclude quickly because she was recused from important cases pending or imminently pending before the New Hampshire Supreme Court.
Possible Penalties
A Class B felony conviction can result in three to seven years in prison and a fine of up to $4,000. A Class A misdemeanor carries a sentence of up to 12 months in jail and a fine of up to $2,000.
The New Hampshire Department of Justice has stated that the investigation is complete and no other individuals have been accused of wrongdoing. It also emphasized that the charges in these indictments are only allegations, and Justice Hantz Marconi is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Hantz Marconi has been on paid leave from the Supreme Court since July, while her husband has been on leave since April and is under investigation by Attorney General John Formella. The nature of the investigation has not been publicly disclosed, and Geno Marconi has not been charged with any crime.
Response from Hantz Marconi's Attorneys
Hantz Marconi's attorneys maintain her innocence, asserting that she hasn't violated any rules or laws. They plan to file motions to dismiss the charges. They stated their intention to fight these wrongful accusations in court, rather than in the media.
The New Hampshire Department of Justice and Hantz Marconi were contacted for comment but did not respond by the time of publication.
Bottom Line
This case serves as a reminder that no one, regardless of their position, is above the law. It also emphasizes the importance of due process and the presumption of innocence until proven guilty. What are your thoughts on this matter? Do you think the charges are justified, or is there more to the story? Share this article with your friends and let us know your thoughts. Don't forget to sign up for the Daily Briefing, which is delivered every day at 6pm.
