Kwame Kilpatrick Tells Judge His Trial Was Unfair

DETROIT (WWJ/AP) - Former Detroit Mayor Kwame Kilpatrick is asking a judge to throw out his corruption conviction, claiming he was the victim of media bias and a bad lawyer.

Kilpatrick made the written request on his own Monday in Detroit federal court. He said he's also filed a complaint against lawyer James Thomas with the Michigan Attorney Grievance Commission.

In March, Kilpatrick and his buddy, Bobby Ferguson, were convicted of racketeering conspiracy and other crimes. The government said Kilpatrick fixed contracts in a "pay to play" scheme that favored Ferguson.

They said, while mayor, Kilpatrick accepted bribes and abused a nonprofit fund, enjoying a lavish lifestyle while his constituents suffered.

Thomas declined to talk about Kilpatrick's dissatisfaction with him, telling The Detroit News he's still representing the former mayor.

Kilpatrick, who was denied bond, is being held in federal prison in Milan while he awaits sentencing. No date has been set.

Kilpatrick's father, Bernard Kilpatrick, was found guilty on a tax charge in connection with the case. He remains free on bond.

SURVEY: Majority Say Kilpatrick Verdict Was 'Just And Fair'

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