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Bruce Bennett/Getty Images [file][/caption]Calls for ethics reforms in Albany are being renewed with the conviction.. again.. of a former high-ranking New York State legislator.

Former Senate Speaker Dean Skelos and his son, Adam have been convicted for a second time of corruption after the first verdict was set aside under new redefined corruption laws.

A jury in federal court in Manhattan deliberated four days before finding the father and son guilty for pressuring rich businesses into hiring Adam for high-paying, mainly no-show jobs.  Prosecutors say the elder Skelos abused his power in state government to swing the jobs for his son while the defense claimed the Republican never used his influence to benefit any of the businesses.

Sentencing is set for October 24th.  The top count of extortion carries a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison. The Skelos’ were also found guilty of bribery, extortion and honest services fraud.

While, predictably, government watchdog groups have applauded the verdict, even New York 22nd congressional district candidates are weighing in with Claudia Tenney calling for better accountability and her opponent, Anthony Brindisi saying he has long fought for campaign reform in the state.

 

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