A judge is now considering an appeal from convicted former Agriprocessors executive Sholom Rubashkin to be released from jail prior to his sentencing. Rubashkin, who was found guilty of 86 federal bank fraud charges earlier this month, faces 1,000 years in prison.
Seventy-two immigration charges were dismissed to save the expense of another trial next month. Rubashkin’s attorney initially requested that his client be released from jail while he awaits sentencing next month. Judge Linda Reade denied the request last week, saying Rubashkin is a flight risk.
Rubashkin has now filed an appeal asking the judge to reconsider, noting the conditions of release could include a curfew, home detention, an ankle monitoring bracelet and bail. The motion also claimes Rubashkin does not have a diver’s license or passport, and has surrendered his birth certificate.
Meanwhile, some Postville residents are showing support for Rubashkin by displaying yard signs. However, some local veterans are questioning the use of the American flag on the signs. And others are claiming the signs are inappropriate, saying the victims in the case are the former workers at the Agriprocessors plant.
Contributed by Roger King, KOEL, Oelwein