RICHMOND, Va. (WTVR) - The federal judge presiding over former Virginia Governor Bob McDonnell and his wife Maureen's corruption case altered his ruling to allow the former First Couple to speak to friends and family members associated with their case.
While Judge David Novak will allow the McDonnells to speak, he ordered them not to talk about the case. He said while he believes the McDonnells will abide by the ruling, he added they will be detained should they violate the order.
Former Governor McDonnell declined to answer questions as he exited court Monday.
Lawyers from both sides were told to have witness lists ready to present to the other side by Wednesday.
Earlier this month, the McDonnells entered not guilty pleas to federal charges that they performed political favors for a political donor to showered the couple with gifts.
The judge released the McDonnells on their own recognizance and lectured them to remain clear of the media prior to their July trial.
While it is usual to keep defendants from speaking to potential witnesses is a criminal case, the McDonnells are seeking an exception for their children.
CBS 6 reporters Jake Burns and Joe St. George will be in court this morning. Watch for their reports on WTVR.com and the CBS 6 News at Noon.
