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Janklow says he `couldn't be sorrier' for accident that killed motorcyclist


By CARSON WALKER
The Associated Press
9/22/03 6:06 PM


SIOUX FALLS, S.D. (AP) -- Rep. Bill Janklow, charged with second-degree
manslaughter in an accident that killed a motorcyclist, said Monday he
"couldn't be sorrier" for the crash and has made no decision about his
political future.

"I'm just learning to cope with the present and I don't know how to do that.
I'm getting better at it," he said. "If I were ineffective, I would quit
today."

Janklow's comments at a news conference in Sioux Falls marked the first time
he has spoken publicly since the Aug. 16 crash that killed Randy Scott.
Authorities say Janklow ran a stop sign at a rural intersection and was
doing 71 mph in a 55-mph zone when his Cadillac collided with Scott's
Harley-Davidson.

The maximum punishment for second-degree manslaughter is 10 years in prison
and a $10,000 fine. Janklow is also charged with careless driving, speeding
and running a stop sign.

According to court documents filed Monday, Janklow waived his right to a
preliminary hearing and is to be arraigned Friday.

Janklow became emotional during parts of the news conference as he reflected
on the crash -- an uncharacteristic response for a man known as a defiant,
take-charge politician. He has been a powerful force in South Dakota
politics for nearly 30 years, serving four years as attorney general and 16
years as governor before being elected to the state's lone House seat last
year.

Janklow, a Republican whose term expires at the end of next year, refused to
say if he has had direct contact with Scott's family, and said it would be
inappropriate to discuss the crash.

Scott's mother, Marcella Scott, issued a statement Monday saying the family
would still like to hear more.

"While Mr. Janklow's regret is no doubt sincere, we had hoped for more
honesty about the cause of Randy's death," she wrote.

Janklow is recovering from head and hand injuries suffered in the crash, and
planned to return to Washington later Monday. He said his health affects his
work somewhat, but added there's no major legislation moving right now.

Asked whether he would run for re-election next year, he said, "I have no
idea. There's a time for everything."

Janklow said President Bush, Bush's father and former President Clinton have
called his home and that he talked with the Bushes but was not well enough
to speak with Clinton.

Asked how he has changed in the last five weeks, Janklow said, "How the hell
do I know how I've changed? I don't have a clue. I don't know."

He sobbed briefly after the answer.

If convicted of second-degree manslaughter, Janklow would not be allowed to
vote in the House or take part in committee meetings, though those
privileges would be returned if he was re-elected or the conviction was
overturned.

Steven
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