The State Senator who was the target of a ghost candidate scheme speaks out before the former lawmaker convicted of illegally financing that scheme is sentenced. Ousted State Senator Jose Javier Rodriguez asking the Miami-Dade judge to not give former State Senator Frank Artiles a slap on the wrist.
"That this appears to be really the first time that there's a potential for accountability on these corrupt practices that keep happening. I do believe that significant penalty, and I know that state attorney's office is asking for jail time, would have a deterrent effect, " Rodriguez said.
In September, Artiles was found guilty on three counts for making illegal campaign contributions to Alex Rodriguez in order to siphon votes from the incumbent.
"I withhold adjudication, and I sentence Mr. Artilles on each count to five years of probation, " said Judge Miguel de la O on Monday afternoon.
Of the 60 days in jail, he'll get credit for time served and must perform 500 hours community service and be banned from politics.