[Mappaindy]

So having cash is now a crime?

Interesting.

Jefferson now hopes to get the search of his residence thrown out as a warrantless search because of the "separation of powers", which gives members of congress a more lenience than the rest of US citizens enjoy.

My understanding is that there was a warrant for the search of Jefferson's residence granted by a judge. This warrant would stand up for citizens since the FBI had a video tape of Jefferson accepting a bribe of $100K. That's pretty good probable cause, and they found that cash (less $10K) in his freezer. The feds first searched his Hill office and his New Orleans residence. They didn't find the cash there, but they did find that cash in his DC residence.

One of Jefferson's aids already pled guilty. The feds are investigating seven other instances involving Jefferson and bribery.

The last I heard, Jefferson is claiming that the search was illegal because he has more leeway under separation of powers. This seems like an elitist attitude, regardless of party. He should have done the honorable thing and discontinued his election (I believe that he had the option of choosing his replacement, but that seems to differ by state) or stepped down. I would expect that of any publicly paid official who "sought things of value in return for his performance of official acts" should resign to save face and protect the integrity of the office (as much as it has, that is). CNN.com - Affidavit: $90,000 found in congressman's freezer - May 22, 2006