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Bob McDonnell headed to prison after appeals court rejection

Posted at 12:12 PM, Aug 20, 2015
and last updated 2015-08-20 18:23:43-04

RICHMOND, Va. — Former Virginia governor Bob McDonnell is likely headed to prison after a federal appeals court turned down his request to remain free while he appeals his federal corruption conviction to the Supreme Court.

"The “Motion to clarify order granting release pending appeal or, in the alternative, to stay the mandate pending resolution of a petition for certiorari” is DENIED. That is, the motion to clarify that our Order of January 26, 2015 will remain in force pending the disposition of a timely certiorari petition is DENIED," the 4th Circuit Court Court of Appeals order stated. "The alternative motion to stay the mandate is also DENIED. Pursuant to Federal Rule of Appellate Procedure 41(b), the mandate will issue seven days from the date of the entry of this Order."

According to lawyers, McDonnell could be forced to prison as early as Aug. 27. However, legal experts think a date in September is more likley unless the High Court intervenes.

McDonnell's attorneys have petitioned the Supreme Court to allow the former governor to remain free on bond.

"I am saddened by the Court's decision today to deny me freedom while I pursue vindication in the U.S. Supreme Court," McDonnell wrote in a statement released Thursday afternoon. "I am innocent of these charges and will petition the U.S. Supreme Court for a grant of bond. I ask my exceptional friends across the nation to continue to support and pray for me and my family during this agonizing time. I thank God for His abundant grace and strength as I continue this difficult journey."

Earlier this month, the 4th Circuit Court unanimously rejected's McDonnell's second request to consider an appeal.