Year’s Sentence Urged in Jury-Tampering Case

A juror who contacted businessman Michael Goland during deliberations in his election-fraud trial did so in an attempt to get established in the real estate business and deserves at least a year in prison, prosecutors said in court documents released Thursday.

Barry Kuhnke, 32, who pleaded guilty in Los Angeles to contempt of court for contacting Goland in an attempt to arrange a verdict in the trial last May, told Goland he would “appreciate a show of consideration,” a sentencing recommendation filed by prosecutors said.

Kuhnke’s sentencing was postponed until Oct. 29. Assistant U.S. Atty. Stephen Mansfield has recommended he receive at least a year in prison.

After several attempts to get Goland’s attention at the courthouse, Kuhnke confronted the defendant in a parking garage and told Goland, “I’m in control of your fate.” He then tossed Goland a note, which began with the promise: “Michael, I can make it happen.”