Vice President Spiro Agnew and Construction Kickbacks in Maryland

In the history of American politics, Agnew Spiro has left a legacy of corruption. Through his illegal acts and transactions with the contractors, he has undeniably earned a lot for his campaign. However, through his own acts, he resigned from his position and has tainted his personality and reputation. He then faced various cases involving bribery and tax evasion. In the case of bribery and tax evasion, Vice President Spiro Agnew should be fined and imprisoned.

The fine and disbarment that was imposed on Agnew should have been coupled with imprisonment because of his position as vice president. Under the bribery law that was controlling during the reign of Agnew, both fine and imprisonment is imposable upon bribery that is severe (Kickback, Law Library-American Law and Legal Information). In the case of Agnew, the bribery he committed was severe. It is because he was holding the second highest position of the land.

In addition, as a public official, he is expected to act righteously and legally. However, by receiving kickbacks he abused his power and acted in fraud in awarding contracts. Additionally, the acts of Agnew are against Foreign Corrupt Practices Act of 1977 and Anti-Kickback Enforcement Act of 1986 (Kickback, Law Library-American Law and Legal Information). Having violated two laws governing public officials, Agnew can be disbarred from public office for life.

Furthermore, his fine should have been higher in the income tax evasion case against him. Furthermore, the decision in the case involving Childs and Matz may be seen as appropriate. Although the vice- president instigated kickbacks, the contractors had relevant participation. However, the fine payable to the state should have been greater by virtue of his political involvement.

References

Law Library-American Law and Legal Information. (2008). Kickback. Retrieved January 13, 2009, from http://law. jrank. org/pages/7990/Kickback. html.