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Spy's wife regrets damage done to the countryWASHINGTON (CNN) -- The lawyer representing the wife of admitted spy Robert Hanssen said in a statement released Thursday that her client deeply regretted the harm done by her husband's activities. "Please be aware how deeply Mrs. Hanssen regrets the damage that her husband, Robert Hanssen, has caused to our country and to their family," said the statement released by Janine Brookner, attorney for Bonnie Hanssen. It was the first official comment on behalf of Bonnie Hanssen since her husband was arrested in February on espionage charges.
Brookner said her client supports the plea agreement unveiled last week in which Robert Hanssen pleaded guilty to 15 charges of espionage. By making such a plea agreement, Robert Hanssen will face life imprisonment and will not face the death penalty. As part of the plea agreement reached with the government, Bonnie Hanssen will receive part of her husband's federal pension -- about $40,000 a year -- as long as she continues to cooperate with federal authorities in their investigation into his espionage activities.
"It is important to note that Mrs. Hanssen is very appreciative of the government's recognition that she played no role in and received no benefit from her husband's activities. She and the children clearly are innocent victims. She has been and will continue to be candid, forthright, honest and complete in her discussions with the government," the statement said. "Last and most important, many wonderful people have given their love, kindness and support to Mrs. Hanssen during this ordeal. She will always be grateful and indebted to them. Sometimes in the most trying and grim circumstances, one finds great humanity and hope," the statement concludes. |
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