As Boston Calling case is dismissed, and the cloud that loomed over Mayor Walsh dissolves
It was an explosive case, a public corruption probe with the potential to undermine a new mayor’s political agenda.
In 2014, Boston Mayor Martin J. Walsh’s administration came under FBI scrutiny for its cozy relationship with organized labor. Two years later, a pair of high-ranking City Hall officials were indicted on charges they threatened to withhold permits from organizers of the Boston Calling music festival unless they hired union members, a violation of the federal law prohibiting extortion. There was speculation more indictments would follow, casting scrutiny on a mayor with deep ties to organized labor.
That case collapsed Thursday, when US District Judge Leo T. Sorokin dismissed the charges against Kenneth Brissette and Timothy Sullivan after prosecutors conceded they could not secure a conviction under his interpretation of the law. Prosecutors say they will appeal, a process that could take at least a year.
“I appreciate this being brought to resolution,’’ Walsh said in a statement. “I look forward to continuing our focus on moving the city forward and working to expand opportunities for Boston residents, every day.”
Read more: http://www.bostonglobe.com/metro/2018/03/22/case-dismissed-and-cloud-that-loomed-over-walsh-dissolves/YLGxPEHKro0RdVFrRV5jKM/story.html