Ex-coal CEO sentencing slated for Wednesday in West Virginia
{{#rendered}} {{/rendered}}Former coal executive Don Blankenship is scheduled to be sentenced for a conviction connected to the deadliest U.S. mine explosion in four decades.
The ex-Massey Energy CEO is due in court Wednesday for sentencing.
Blankenship was convicted Dec. 3 of a misdemeanor conspiracy to willfully violate mine safety standards at Upper Big Branch Mine. The southern West Virginia coal mine exploded in 2010, killing 29 men.
{{#rendered}} {{/rendered}}Prosecutors are advocating for the maximum penalties of a year in prison and a $250,000 fine. Blankenship's defense says he shouldn't receive more than probation and a fine.
Defense attorneys also are pushing to keep Blankenship out of prison until he receives a decision on the appeal his attorneys have promised. Prosecutors oppose the motion.