First Round: Velella 7, LCRC 0

By Henry J. Stern
November 22, 2004

Former State Senator Guy Velella will have Thanksgiving dinner at home this year. The court which he asked to overrule a decision by the Local Conditional Release Commission stayed his sentence for seven days while it considers briefs submitted by the city and by the senator's attorney, Charles Stillman.
 
The likelihood is that the Velellas will also be able to celebrate Christmas in their Bronx residence, since 1) like the mills of the Gods, the mills of justice grind slow; 2) December is usually a month where the courts, imbued by the holiday spirit, are merciful; 3) judges tend to be understanding of the problems of former colleagues in public service who are unfortunate enough to be apprehended; and 4) even if the trial court is not collegial, or congenial, there are higher courts to which the former senator can appeal in the fullness of time.
 
More tomorrow, if you are up for it.