The Potential Case Against Lance Armstrong: Is an Indictment Close?
The 60 Minutes interview of Lance Armstrong's teammate, Tyler Hamilton, lived up to the hype about being a bombshell. Hamilton's account of Armstrong's illegal drug use was specific, compelling and detailed. Hamilton also claimed to being an eyewitness to Armstrong injecting himself with illegal blood doping drugs. Even more devastating was Hamilton's recounting of Armstrong and Armstrong's "people" covering up a positive drug test to protect his image.
It is worth noting that Armstrong denies Hamilton's allegations and clams that Hamilton is just pushing a book deal.
The most important part of the story, however, could be missed. Scott Pelley reported that Armstrong's cycling team was sponsored by the US Postal Service and had pledged to be drug free in return for federal funds. If Armstrong lied and used illegal drugs, he can be indicted for perpetrating a fraud against the United States, conspiracy and drug trafficking. This kind of federal indictment will make the Barry Bonds case (and conviction) seem like very small potatoes.
Given the testimony against Armstrong (obtained by the subpoena power of the US Attorney), an indictment against Armstrong now seems inevitable. At that point, the 7-time Tour de France champion will be in the race of his life.
My name is Christopher Fusco. I am the managing partner of Callahan & Fusco, LLC with offices in New York, New Jersey, and Pennsylvania.