The New York Times's Web site on Tuesday reported, "Former City Council Leader Avoids Prison for Tax Evasion." Andrew J. Stein didn't pay taxes on $1 million in income in 2008. His punishment: Three years' probation and 500 hours of community service.
Possibly Stein's cause was helped by Geraldo Rivera asking the judge for leniency. Or maybe the judge was impressed by Stein's cooperation; the story notes that he "also agreed to pay taxes for the years 2003 to 2008." Whatta guy!
The New York Times did omit at least one salient fact: Stein is a Democrat.
Oops. Maybe next time.
