Conyers reports to prison in West Virginia, begins serving 37-month sentence

DETROIT (WXYZ) - Former Detroit City Council President Monica Conyers has reported to prison in West Virginia.

Conyers reported early Friday afternoon, a day after a federal appeals court denied her request for bond while she appealed her sentence in the City Hall Corruption case.

The United States Court of Appeals found that Conyers' request did not meet the standard set for bond in cases like hers.

In deciding whether or not someone should be let out on bond during an appeal, the court considers the likelihood that the defendant will win the appeal, and if that victory will result in the defendant getting a new trial, or being released altogether.

Thursday's ruling indicates that the court does not believe this will be the case in regards to Conyers' appeal.

According to paperwork filed with the Bureau of Prisons, Conyers will serve her time at FPC Alderson in Alderson, West Virginia. The facility, which is also known as Camp Cupcake, is where Martha Stewart served her five month prison sentence after being convicted of lying to investigators about a stock sale.

In March, Conyers was sentenced to 37 months in prison after accepting a plea deal in 2009. As part of the deal, Conyers admitted to taking a bribe to vote in favor of the Synagro sludge contract.

At her sentencing, Conyers attempted to withdraw her plea but that was denied. She is now appealing the ruling.