Former staffers for Thaddeus McCotter sentenced in false signatures case

(WXYZ) - Two of Thaddeus McCotter's former aides have been sentenced for their rolls in falsifying signatures on McCotter's reelection petitions.

Don Yowchuang was sentenced to three years probation, one of which must be served in the county jail if Yowchuang violates his probation. He also was sentenced to 200 hours of community service and to pay court costs and fees. Yowchuang must also report any contact with police or loss of employment to his assigned probation officer.

Yowchuang worked as Deputy District Director for McCotter. He pled no contest to ten felony counts of forgery and six misdemeanor counts of falsely signing a nominating petition as circulator. 

Paul Seewald worked as District Director for McCotter. he pled guilty to nine misdemeanor counts of falsely signing a nominating petition as circulator. He was sentenced to two years probation, 100 hours of community service and to pay court costs and fees. Seewald must also report any contact with police or loss of employment to his assigned probation officer.

Both men were also facing a Conspiracy charge, but that was dismissed. The office of Michigan Attorney General Bill Schuette released the following statement about the sentences:

“The message here is very clear - if you break the law, there are consequences.  We’ll review the dismissal of the conspiracy charge and make a decision about appeal.”