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We have just endured the sordid trial of John Edwards on charges that the former Democratic presidential candidate used $1 million in campaign funds to cover up his affair and his mistress’s pregnancy. How much more depravity can we stand?
Well, we got another dose this week as the trial of former Penn State football assistant coach Jerry Sandusky got under way in Pennsylvania. He is facing child sex-abuse charges against 10 alleged victims involving 52 counts of involuntary sexual deviate intercourse, indecent assault of a young child, unlawful contact with minors and endangering the welfare of children. If convicted, he could face life in prison.
It is alleged that he used his fame in the community to attract his young victims and then engage in sexual activity with them. One by one, they paraded before the jury this week with emotional and graphic testimony. Sandusky gets to put on his defense next week, and what will it be? All those alleged victims are lying or confused or both?
The case has already resulted in the firing of legendary coach Joe Paterno, and some say his death was brought on by the stress and shame of the scandal. Penn State is still recovering from having ignored the accusations against Sandusky for so long, and the district attorney at the beginning of the case has been missing and declared dead.
“Sordid” doesn’t do it justice, does it? Edwards got the good news this week that the government won’t retry him. Don’t bet Sandusky will be so lucky.
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