Liz Burke, WPRO News
State Representative John McCauley was sentenced in Federal Court on Friday morning to two years and three months in prison. The deputy speaker of the Rhode Island House pleaded guilty in September to conspiracy and tax fraud charges.
The courtroom was filled with McCauley’s family, friends, neighbors and even some fellow political figures. McCauley choked up and wiped away tears when he told the Judge that he had made a mistake.
“I feel terrible for the strain of resources that I put on the government. I’ve got a lot of work to do,” said McCauley.
Judge Mary Lisi said that this had gone beyond the typical tax evasion case and being a State Representative he is an example to others. She said for these reasons and others were deciding factors for the 27 month sentence.
Outside the courthouse McCauley told reporters that he hoped that Judge Lisi would be more lenient with the sentence but he understands.
“It’s a tough job for the prosecution and the judge and being in the public eye you are held to a higher standard whether the crime fits or not. So hopefully others will learn from my mistakes and don’t make them,” said McCauley.
McCauley is to report to custody on January 15th. He is also sentenced to three years of supervised release, to pay a fine of $10,000 and must pay what he owes to the IRS. McCauley’s business partner William L’Europa also pleaded guilty and is to be sentenced on January 30th.
