Ex-Va. gov says US stretched law to indict

RICHMOND, Va. (AP) — Former Virginia Gov. Bob McDonnell says federal prosecutors stretched the law to bring corruption charges against him and his wife.

McDonnell appeared Tuesday night at a hastily called news conference in Richmond to address a 14-count indictment returned against the former first couple. He did not take questions.

With his wife, Maureen, at his side, McDonnell denied he gave any special treatment to a political patron who lavished gifts on the governor and his family.

McDonnell said his actions were no different than any other governor before him and he said federal prosecutors "stretched the law to its breaking point" to bring their prosecution.

He said he would use "every available resource" to fight the charges.