2 allies of New Jersey gov. jailed over 'bridgegate'

By Michael Hernandez

WASHINGTON (AA) - Two allies of New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie were sentenced to prison Wednesday for their role in a transportation scandal steeped in political intrigue.

Christie's former deputy chief of staff Bridget Anne Kelly, 44, was sentenced to 18 months, and Port Authority of New York and New Jersey Deputy Executive Director Bill Baroni, 45, was sentenced to two years behind bars for their roles in what has become known as "bridgegate".

They each have to additionally serve 500 hours of community service. U.S. Attorney Bill Fitzpatrick said the sentences were fair.

It was Christie who appointed Baroni to his role.

Kelly and Baroni were found guilty in November of intentionally causing four days of gridlock in 2013 to punish the mayor of Fort Lee, New Jersey for not endorsing Christie in his bid for re-election. The town is home to a bridge that runs to Manhattan.

Both are expected to appeal their convictions.

For his part, Christie has avoided being caught up in any legal proceedings related to the scandal.

He has maintained that he was unaware of any wrongdoing, but the wrongdoing has nonetheless damaged his political career and de-railed his prospects to run as President Donald Trump's running mate in last year's election.

Trump said during the heated Republican primary that Christie knew about the scandal.

"He totally knew about it," Trump said as he fought to secure the Republican nomination.