Embattled State Rep Stephen "Stat" Smith Escapes Serious Jail Time in Massachusetts Federal Voter Fraud Case

EAGAN, MN, April 20, 2013 (Press-News.org) Former Democratic state representative from Everett, Stephen "Stat" Smith, was sentenced by Chief United States Magistrate Judge Leo T. Sorokin to four months in prison, a fine of $20,000, and one year supervised probation today in federal court in Boston. Smith was forced to resign his seat at the end of last year after pleading guilty to voter fraud charges. He faced up to two years in prison.

While Smith loses a career he thoroughly embraced, excelled at, and ultimately cherished, he understood his resignation was inevitable. In court, he was apologetic to the people of Everett, the government, and his family for having to endure the high profile criminal process. Smith has been vocal about his deep disappointment in losing his career as a public servant, which he enjoyed since his first election for Ward 3 Alderman in 1993 and especially his time in Legislature since 2006. He noted later that "I never took my position for granted. I will very much miss the ability to work closely with the people of Everett and be able to make a direct, positive impact on their lives. I made a mistake, but my intentions were always to continue the career I loved and be able to serve the community I'm lived in my entire life."

The embattled politician endured a barrage of slander, libel, and malicious attacks throughout his tenure. Regardless, Smith never strayed from his political philosophy of putting "constituent services" first and serving the people of Everett. Despite his lengthy resume of public service, Smith was humble, unassuming, and dedicated in the face of unfair adversity. Over time, though, as the relentless attacks and unfounded smears against Smith went unabated in the media, his frustrations clouded his judgment and he took actions he ultimately regretted. Smith simply did not possess the resources, public influence, or media power to contest the unfair—and downright false—slanderous and libelous statements being made about him on a frequent basis. As the unfairness and written and verbal assaults intensified, Smith was driven to work harder than ever to take advantage of possible votes. In the heat of political battle, and having his family forced to read what he and they believed were blatantly false newspaper articles, Smith regrettably lost focus and committed misdemeanor offenses.

Smith's attorneys, Peter C. Horstmann and Peter V. Bellotti, emphasized their client's zealous commitment to public service and selfless dedication to the community he served. Attorney Horstmann notes that "Even though Mr. Smith was committed to the legislative aspect of his job, Stat enjoyed being a practical problem-solver and working with constituents. His primary focus was always the community he served."

Attorney Bellotti seconded Horstmann's sentiment and added that "This is as big a loss to the city of Everett as it is to Stat. Everett is losing one of the finest representatives in its history. Stat was always responsive to constituents that needed his help—he was first in line to help someone who lost their job, was being evicted...Stat embraced every difficult challenge he faced and did it without the expectation of credit or fanfare."

In the end, Mr. Smith fully accepted the ramifications of his actions. Attorneys Horstmann and Bellotti, hope the community remembers Representative Smith's many good works, sacrifices, and dedication to his constituents.

Media Inquiries/Contact: Attorney Peter Horstmann,
pete@horstmannlaw.com