By NEDRA PICKLER, Associated Press Writer
WASHINGTON – A former deputy to disgraced lobbyist Jack Abramoff pleaded guilty Friday to lavishing congressional staffers with gifts including an all-expense paid trip to the World Series, box seats at concerts and fancy restaurant tabs.
Todd Boulanger admitted to U.S. District Judge Richard W. Roberts that he provided tens of thousands of dollars worth of entertainment to Capitol Hill aides who could help him get legislation favorable to his clients. Sometimes, he said, he concealed their identities in expense reports to try to keep them from being exposed for violating gift bans.
Boulanger, 37, could have faced up to 5 years in prison, but under terms of his plea deal prosecutors recommended that he get 18-24 months with reduced time if he continues to cooperate in the investigation. A sentencing date has not been set and he was released without bail.
Boulanger is a native of Manchester, N.H., and was for years an aide to former GOP Sen. Bob Smith from his home state. He left Capitol Hill to work with Abramoff, who is in prison and has cooperated with the Justice Department to help convict former Rep. Bob Ney, R-Ohio, former Deputy Interior Secretary J. Steven Griles, several lobbyists and top Capitol Hill aides.
During the plea hearing, the prosecutor read e-mails between Boulanger, his colleagues and congressional aides, who were not shy in their demands. Boulanger, who told the judge all the accusations against him were true, made it clear in his correspondence that he expected the staffers would return his favors.
The prosecutors said one legislative director in the Senate, identified only as "Staffer F," tried to help insert spending measures and add other amendments to legislation for Boulanger's clients. Later, the staffer asked Boulanger if he could "score some hockey tickets," and Boulanger got him front-row seats.
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