Is PA businessman convicted of federal corruption charges hoping his continued philanthropy will favorably influence sentencing judge?

"Robert K. Mericle was a philanthropist long before he became a felon. Awaiting sentencing after pleading guilty to federal corruption charges in 2009, the developer continues to spread his wealth around Northeastern Pennsylvania, in the form of charitable donations to a range of organizations. Critics charge Mericle has stepped up his contributions to influence his sentencing judge, contending the primary motivation has been self-serving, in hopes of restoring a tarnished image and minimizing his eventual sentence." -- Roger DuPuis, the Wilkes-Barre Times Leader