NY Lawyer Destroyed Kiddie Porn Evidence (MORE, CLICK HERE)

Local Lawyer Who Destroyed Evidence in Kiddie Porn Case Spared Prison Time

New York Lawyer - December 17, 2007

By John Christoffersen
The Associated Press

BRIDGEPORT, Conn. -- A lawyer was spared prison time Monday for destroying a computer containing child pornography that was evidence in an investigation at a prominent Greenwich church.

U.S. District Judge Alan H. Nevas sentenced Philip Russell to six months of home confinement, a $25,000 fine and 240 hours of community service.

"I'm very relieved and very happy this case is behind me," Russell said outside court.

He pleaded guilty in September to one count of misprision of a felony, which means he had knowledge of a felony but didn't report it.

Russell, a former attorney for Christ Church in Greenwich, was charged with obstructing an FBI investigation that led to the conviction of the church's music director, Robert Tate, for possessing child pornography.

Former President George H.W. Bush attended the church while growing up and funeral services for his parents were held there.

Russell acknowledged he destroyed the computer, but said he did not expect an investigation. A prosecutor said Russell knew an investigation was likely, noting that Russell gave Tate the name of a criminal defense lawyer.