***updated with statement from Michael Steele below***

Finally, but don’t be too thrilled:

Federal prosecutors have decided to bring charges against a Democratic researcher accused of fraudulently obtaining a credit report on Maryland Lt. Gov. Michael S. Steele, now a Republican candidate for U.S. Senate.

Lauren B. Weiner, who has since resigned from the Democratic Senatorial Campaign Committee in Washington, will be charged with obtaining the report without authorization, according to a letter sent to Steele by the U.S. attorney’s office in the District.

A copy of the March 8 letter, which notified Steele that he is considered a victim in the case, was obtained by The Washington Post yesterday.

The episode, which happened last July, came as both parties started digging into the backgrounds of opposing candidates for one of Maryland’s marquee races this year, the contest to replace retiring Sen. Paul S. Sarbanes (D). Opposition research is typical in contested statewide races, but it is illegal under federal law to obtain a credit report under false pretenses.

Whitney C. Ellerman, an attorney for Weiner, said his client plans to plead guilty to a misdemeanor under an agreement with prosecutors that could result in the charge being dismissed in a year.

Looks like everyone else will skate:

Sources familiar with the episode said Steele’s credit report was obtained with the use of his Social Security number, which was found on a public court document.

Weiner and Katie Barge, then the DSCC’s director of research, resigned after their superiors learned of the incident, which drew the FBI’s attention. The DSCC is the arm of the national Democratic Party that works to elect U.S. senators.

William Lawler, an attorney for Barge, said it is his understanding from prosecutors that neither his client nor the DSCC will be charged.

Hat tip: Junkyard Blog

Reader Marty notes:

Funny how this story is buried on p. B4 in the WaPo and gee, isn’t it convenient they leave Chuck Schumer’s name out of the story?

I wonder where the story would be if this criminal worked for the GOP?

Yup. Starts with A and ends with 1.

***

416pm EST. Just in, a statement from Lt Gov Steele:

Statement from Michael Steele

ANNAPOLIS, MD – Today, Michael Steele released the following statement concerning charges brought by federal prosecutors against one of the Democratic Senatorial Campaign Committee staffers who illegally obtained his credit report:

“I am saddened and concerned by the corrupt practices of those in Washington who have clearly been there for too long. I am particularly concerned about the leadership that fails to recognize and address the illegal activities of subordinates. The theft of my credit report is another example of the often heavy-handed, and in my case, unlawful political games Marylanders are sick of, and it’s another reason why I am looking forward to presenting a fresh, honest, and independent voice in our nation’s capital.”

***

Flashback: Schumer’s consumer crusade tarnished by his own staffers

Flashback: Hugh Hewitt’s memo to DSCC staffers

***

Previous:

Whitewashing Chuckaquiddick
Chuckaquiddick: Look who’s paying the tab
NY Times “looks into” Chuckaquiddick
Chuckaquiddick: Where’s the MSM?
The NYTimes ombudsman is totally worthless
Democrat dumpster diving
A despicable Democrat dirty trick

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