Binghamton’s New York State Senator Under Federal Indictment

Senator Thomas Libous (R) of Binghamton and his son are both facing federal charges.

The Binghamton Deputy Republican Leader has been indicted on one count of making false statements to the FBI, accused of repeatedly lying to federal officials in June 2010 about how his son, Matthew Libous, landed a job with a well-known and politically-connected Westchester County law firm.

Prosecutors alleged the Senator, who has served in state office since 1989, used his influence to get his son the job in exchange for promises of steering work toward the law firm.

The 61 year old Broome County representative, who has been battling cancer over the past several years, maintains his innocence and a statement issued by his office said he vows to fight the charges.

Libous' son, Matthew, meanwhile, is accused of impeding the Internal Revenue Service and filing false tax returns.

Both pleaded not guilty in U.S. District Court in White Plains in Westchester County July 1.