Former Congressman Thaddeus McCotter staffers face judge

Livonia (WXYZ) - A judge has decided that two of Thaddeus McCotter’s former staff members should face trial.

Sixteenth District Court Judge Sean Cavanaugh bound Don Yowchuang and Paul Seewald over for trial Tuesday morning.

During a preliminary hearing last week the judge heard evidence in the case. Former Congressman McCotter testified.

He told the court he learned about the actions of his staffers after Michigan’s Secretary of State Ruth Johnson called him to let him know the re-election petition turned in by his campaign did not have enough valid signatures.

Yowchuang and Seewald are accused of submitting forged nomination petitions on his behalf.

“State election laws apply to everyone, and public employees are no exception. We are confident in our case and prepared for trial,” said Michigan Attorney General Spokesperson Joy Yearout.

The defense attorney for Seewald said the felony charge is excessive given his client's involvement and cooperation with the attorney general's office.

Two female staffers are also charged. Their cases are being handled separately.

McCotter is not charged in the case, but resigned after the scandal came to light.

The defendants are scheduled to appear in Circuit Court for an arraignment on November 6th .