By Steve Neavling
Ticklethewire.com
The Dutch son-in-law of a prominent Russian billionaire became the first person Tuesday to be sentenced as part of special counsel Robert Mueller’s 11-month, evolving investigation into Russia’s interference in the 2016 presidential election.
Alex van der Zwaan, a London-based lawyer, was sentenced to 30 days in prison and fined $20,000 for lying to federal investigators.
The 33-year-old worked closely with Trump’s former campaign chairman Paul Manafort and former deputy chairman Rick Gates, both of whom have been indicted with money laundering, conspiracy and tax fraud.
Van der Zwaan, who is married to the daughter of Russian oligarch German Khan, admitted he lied to FBI agents about communications he had with Manafort’s business partner, Gates, and a person described was “Person A,” who is believed to be a former employee of Manafort’s consulting firm in Ukraine, Konstantin Kilimnik.
Van der Zwaan, who asked for no jail time, apologized in court.
Mueller, who was appointed by Trump’s Justice Department in May, has brought indictments against 19 people and three Russian companies.
Gates has pleaded guilty and agreed to cooperate with Mueller’s team. Manafort continues to his innocence and could face trial as early as September.
