NEW YORK (KGUN9-TV) - The bribery scandal touching University of Arizona basketball opened another chapter Tuesday---this one in New York City.
Suspended UA Coach Emanuel “Book” Richardson, and coaches from other schools caught up in the Federal investigation appeared in New York Federal Court.
It was Richardson's first appearance since the case transferred from Tucson Federal Court to Federal Court in New York. At this stage it's still mostly formalities as part of what could be a long case ahead.
Richardson was one of three assistant coaches who appeared before a Federal Magistrate Judge. Assistant coaches from University of Southern California and Auburn were also in court today.
They are caught up in an elaborate Federal investigation that includes bribery claims connected to player recruitment.
Richardson was in court with his wife, family and friends. ESPN reports he grabbed the hand of a friend and said a prayer before court began.
There was no evidence discussed at this early stage. The judge set bond at 100 thousand dollars for each of the defendants, and discussed conditions of their release.
The next step is a preliminary hearing November 9th. That could be waived if there's an indictment by then. For now the men are simply charged via a criminal complaint.
Earlier, 60 years was discussed as the potential sentence for the men. Now prosecutors and defense attorneys are talking about 80 years.
Before court began one of Richardson's attorneys described the case as a tragedy for a truly decent human being.
