Jail Looms for ‘Scooter’ Libby

I. Lewis “Scooter” Libby Jr.’s chances of avoiding time in the slammer are looking slim after Thursday’s ruling by Federal Judge Reggie B. Walton rejecting Libby’s lawyers’ request that their client remain free to roam while he appeals his conviction for perjury, obstruction of justice and making false statements related to the leaking of CIA agent Valerie Plame Wilson’s identity in 2003. 

New York Times:

Judge Walton’s decision means that the defense lawyers will probably ask a federal appeals court to block the sentence, a long-shot move. It also sharpens interest in a question being asked by Mr. Libby’s supporters and critics alike: Will President Bush pardon Mr. Libby?

So far, the president has expressed sympathy for Mr. Libby and his family but has not tipped his hand on the pardon issue.

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AP Photo / Gerald Herbert

Meet the press:  “Scooter” Libby faces the cameras as he exits the courthouse after his conviction on March 6, 2007.