FIFA bribery scandal: Former Fox executive unexpectedly offered acquittal.

(CLO) In connection with the 2015 FIFA bribery case, former Fox News executive Hernan Lopez was unexpectedly recommended for acquittal by US prosecutors.

According to court records, Federal Prosecutor Joseph Nocella Jr., representing the Brooklyn Attorney's Office (New York, USA), submitted this request to the U.S. Supreme Court. The reason given was briefly "in the interest of justice."

Hernan Lopez (left), former CEO of Fox. X/hernanlopez

Lopez is accused of participating in a conspiracy to bribe officials of the South American Football Confederation (CONMEBOL) to secure broadcasting rights for the Copa Libertadores while he was director of Fox International Channels.

The legal journey of this case has been complex and full of surprises. In 2023, a federal jury in Brooklyn convicted Lopez. Later, Judge Pamela Chen overturned the conviction, arguing that the law used to prosecute did not apply to commercial bribery abroad.

In early 2024, the Court of Appeal reversed Judge Chen's decision, reinstating the conviction of Mr. Lopez. Mr. Lopez appealed to the Supreme Court. At this point, the prosecution – the winning party – proactively requested the Supreme Court to approve the dismissal of the entire case.

If accepted, the Court will issue a ruling overturning the Appeals Court's decision and return the case to Judge Pamela Chen. The lower court will then formally order the dismissal of the charges, permanently ending the criminal case against Mr. Lopez.

Conversely, if the appeal is not granted, the Supreme Court will proceed to consider Lopez's appeal through normal procedures. This could lead to a new legal hearing, and the final outcome remains unpredictable.

In response to this development, Hernan Lopez reiterated his innocence: "Throughout my career, I have always upheld the highest standards of ethics and professionalism, and while this challenge has been incredibly difficult for me and my family, I am grateful that the truth has prevailed."

Source: https://congluan.vn/vu-hoi-lo-fifa-cuu-giam-doc-fox-bat-ngo-duoc-de-nghi-tha-bong-10322177.html