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Film crew access raises questions about prosecutor in DeLay inquiry
By Associated press
Published October 1, 2005
AUSTIN, Texas - The Texas district attorney who brought the criminal case against House Majority Leader Tom DeLay gave a movie crew behind-the-scenes access during the investigation - proof, DeLay's supporters say, that the prosecutor is trying to make headlines for himself.
"It proves that Ronnie Earle's determination to move ahead with a baseless case was scripted from day one," said Ben Porritt, DeLay's spokesman.
Filmmakers Mark Birnbaum and Jim Schermbeck said Earle and his staff did not give them access to any of the secret grand jury proceedings.
DeLay was indicted this week, accused of conspiring to illegally funnel corporate campaign contributions to Republican candidates for the Texas Legislature. The charge forced DeLay to step aside from his post as the No. 2 Republican in the House.
DeLay's supporters said the documentary is part of a pattern of headline-grabbing by Earle, who has appeared on 60 Minutes and has been profiled by Time and Esquire magazines.
The access given to the filmmakers "clearly shows Ronnie Earle had ulterior motives. Not only was he out for partisan gain, he was out to promote himself as well," said Carl Forti, spokesman for the National Republican Congressional Committee.
[Last modified October 1, 2005, 01:46:16]
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