Abscam's Toll

Six pols are prison bound

A defense lawyer decried the "mass condemnation proceedings," but New York Federal District Court Judge George Pratt was unmoved. Pratt ordered jail terms for six former elected officials convicted of bribery and conspiracy, the first sentences handed down in the Justice Department's Abscam operation.

Four are former U.S. Representatives. Frank Thompson, 63, of New Jersey, might avoid jail because of a heart condition; final sentencing will await medical test results. The three other ex-Congressmen were each given $20,000 fines, and multiple prison terms to be served concurrently. New York's John Murphy, 55, received a three-year and two two-year terms. Michael Myers, 38, was given three three-year terms, and fellow Philadelphian Raymond Lederer, 43, racked up three terms of three years and another of two years.

Two officials who shared in the spoils were also punished. Philadelphia City Councilman Louis Johanson, 52, received the same sentence as Myers. Because of his extensive involvement, New Jersey State Senator Angelo Errichetti received the harshest sentence: one six-year term, two five-year terms and $40,000 in fines. Under parole guidelines, each of the six must serve at least 14 months. All plan to appeal.

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