By Robert Haugh
Convicted former Santa Clara Vice Mayor Anthony Becker was scheduled to be sentenced tomorrow.
But Becker recently and suddenly requested a continuance, according to a knowledgeable source. His new sentencing hearing will be on March 21.
Last month, a jury unanimously found Becker guilty of felony perjury for leaking a 2022 Grand Jury report to the 49ers and lying about it.
Becker’s defense team called no witnesses and Becker did not testify on his behalf.
Becker was first indicted in April 2023 – 657 days ago.
Becker waived his right to a speedy trial and used unusual and questionable tactics to delay his case for almost two years at taxpayers’ expense.
In March, Judge Javier Alcala could sentence Becker to serve up to four years in prison.
On Tuesday, Stand Up for Santa Clara President Dana Caldwell wrote an opinion piece for Santa Clara News Online (SCNO) making the case that Becker should serve some prison time.
That’s a sentiment that SCNO has heard from numerous community members since Becker’s conviction.
Many readers have also expressed how Becker has manipulated the judicial system to delay his trial and to receive special treatment from the court.
This is a developing story.
Many of us agree he should do some time. That being the case, as his release date approaches can we petition the court for a delay? Seems fair.
Alright
You guys got me to laugh!!!
Truth is, we need more genuine laughter in our City.
I’ll stop right here, but trust whatever day Becker becomes Inmate #### I’ll be in the Courtroom in my “Orange is the New Black”S.F. Giants gear.
Burt Field
March 21 is my birthday
Sounds like a great opportunity for a Burt picnic and birthday cake!
Look at the bright side: It’s been about seven weeks since this blog last reported on Becker’s conviction (Dec. 7) and since then there have been many more community engagement posts here. Now, SCNO has another seven weeks to continue focussing on the same.
On the downside: Burt must cancel his much-anticipated picnic in Morgan Hill tomorrow.
On an even brighter note: We The People caught and convicted an elected official who was committing felony crimes. Rooting out corruption in government should always be celebrated! I think this is something we can all agree on.
@Ted: Agreed!