Manafort Seeks Early Prison Release Due To Coronavirus Fears

President Donald Trump’s former campaign chairman Paul Manafort has asked to be released early from prison because of his health and fear of the coronavirus. 

In a letter to the Bureau of Prisons, Manafort’s lawyers said he was at “high risk” of being infected with the coronavirus because of his “age and preexisting health conditions.”

Manafort was convicted of financial fraud in 2018. According to his attorneys, he has high blood pressure, liver disease and respiratory issues and is currently taking 11 prescription medications. 

“These medications as well as Mr. Manafort’s health history make plain that Mr. Manafort is at a significantly higher risk for serious illness or death,” his lawyers wrote.

“Indeed, CDC guidelines provide that individuals who are 65 years and older as well those with serious heart conditions and respiratory illnesses are at a higher risk from COVID-19, including death,” they continued.

Manafort’s attorneys asked for permission for him to finish his sentence at home “for the duration of the COVID-19 pandemic,” saying that staying at home with his family in Northern Virginia, “will not increase — and likely decrease — his risk of contracting the potentially fatal disease.”

CORONAVIRUS FAQ: WIKI OF MOST FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS