Roger Clemens Pleads Not Guilty
Roger Clemens said only four words in court today, "Not guilty, your honor." Clemens, the seven-time Cy Young Award winner has publicly denied allegations that he used anabolic steroids and human growth hormone. He is charged with six counts federal counts for allegedly lying to Congress in sworn testimony about doping in 2008.The charges are: three counts of making false statements, two counts of perjury and one count of obstruction of justice.
"I am just making it as possibly clear as I can," Clemens said at the deposition on Feb. 5, 2008, The Los Angeles Times reports. "I haven't done steroids or human growth hormone."
Clemens was indicted after his former trainer, Brian McNamee told investigators that Clemens used steroids. McNamee received immunity from prosecution in exchange for his cooperation.
The next steps in the case come on December 8, when the defense will discuss the status of its review of the evidence. A preliminary hearing is scheduled for March, 28. Clemens' attorneys will certainly be gearing up for the preliminary hearing.
The "prelim" is often a crucial event for a case, although it occurs before the trial, without a jury. At a preliminary hearing, the judge determines whether there is enough evidence for the defendant to stand trial. The judge uses the "probable cause" legal standard, deciding whether the government has produced enough evidence to convince a reasonable jury that the defendant committed the crime charged. The judge may make determinations about whether certain evidence is admissible or not. Such decisions can have major a major impact on the result of the case once it goes to trial.
If Clemens is convicted, he could be sentenced to up to 30 years in prison, however a sentence of of 15 to 21 months is more likely.
Related Resources:
- Preliminary Hearing (FindLaw)
- Stages of a Criminal Case: Sentencing (FindLaw)
- Pre-Trial Motions (FindLaw)