Ex-leader gets probation in 2010 election scam

PONTIAC (AP) -- A judge sentenced the former leader of the Oakland County Democratic Party to probation Wednesday for forging documents and fraudulently entering candidates under a third party. The goal apparently was to confuse voters and take votes from Republican candidates in some local races in 2010. The so-called Independent Tea Party candidates didn't know their names were being used. The Oakland Press said Michael McGuinness didn't speak in court as a judge ordered probation, 180 hours of community service and a $1,000 fine. He was head of Oakland County Democrats when the crimes occurred last year. "You violated the trust and brought dishonor on yourself and the office that you held," Judge James Alexander said. Jason Bauer, who was the local party's political director, will be sentenced in January for similar offenses. He and McGuinness pleaded no contest earlier this year. John Scott, a county commissioner who is a Republican, said McGuinness violated the election process. "I was disappointed that he didn't get jail," Scott said. Published: Fri, Dec 9, 2011