A federal judge refused to overturn the conviction of a former Bush administration official who had ties to Jack Abramoff.

David Safavian, a former chief of staff for the General Services Administration and a former White House official, was convicted of lying about his dealings with Abramoff. He asked for a new trial or acquittal, saying the judge improperly admitted e-mails sent to and from Abramoff.

The judge rejected the motion on Tuesday. Safavian faces up to 20 years in prison.

Get the Story:
Judge upholds conviction of former Bush official (AP 8/12)

Court Decision:
US v. Safavian (September 11, 2006)

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