Marion Barry Apologizes for Contract

WASHINGTON - Ward 8 Councilmember Marion Barry, in trouble again, tells citizens and the D.C. Council he is sorry for behavior that "didn't make good sense."

Responding to a report that alleged possible criminal behavior in the handling of a contract he gave his then-girlfriend, Barry issued his apology at Union Temple Baptist Church in Southeast Washington. He refused to take questions, but said he should not have given a contract to someone he had a personal relationship with.

Barry acknowledged he has embarrassed the city and the council.

Attorneys Robert Bennett and Amy Sabrin, whose team of lawyers issued the report, were awaiting responses from members of the council. The special counsel now has one week to get back to council Chairman Vincent Gray with their final report.

There's no word on how the council might censure Barry, and whether lawmakers will refer the matter to the U.S. Attorney's office.
 

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