Clarence Norman Convicted

9/28/05

Clarence Norman, a member of the State Assembly and the powerful county leader of the Brooklyn Democratic Party, was convicted yesterday of soliciting illegal campaign contributions.

Norman, whose lawyers said he would appeal, could face up to eight years in prison and will have to give up his Assembly seat, party post and law license -- and still faces trial on three other charges.

The cases arise from a probe by Brooklyn District Attorney Charles Hynes of judicial corruption in Brooklyn, including the alleged 'sale' of positions on the bench. While some political insiders said Norman is maneuvering to choose a successor, reformers said they hoped the verdict would clean up politics in the borough.