Ed Jew Pleads Not Guilty To Felony Charges

SAN FRANCISCO, Jul., 16, 2007 (KGO) -- San Francisco Supervisor Ed Jew today pleaded not guilty to criminal charges he lied about where he lived when he ran for office. But first, the supervisor worked the crowd of enthusiastic supporters who lined the front entrance of the Hall of Justice.

Workers using jackhammers across the street drowned out the chants of the 100 or so people who came to the Hall of Justice to support Supervisor Ed Jew.

Nevertheless, the large crowd appeared to surprise him.

Ed Jew, S.F. Supervisor: "Wow! There's quite a few people here."

The embattled politician was mobbed like a rock star -- the crowd grabbing and hugging him, telling him in Chinese that they believe he's being railroaded.

Calvin Louie, Supervisor Jew Supporter: "We feel that all these charges against him are all trumped up without basis, without merit."

District Attorney Kamala Harris has charged Jew with falsifying documents and committing perjury when he ran for office.

Jew says he lived in a 28th Avenue home in his electoral district. Harris says he lied.

ABC7's Vic Lee: "How do you feel today Ed?"

Ed Jew: "I feel wonderful."

In court today, Jew pleaded not guilty to nine felony counts. His attorney, Bill Fazio, told reporters they have no doubt they'll win in court and want the trial to start quickly.

Bill Fazio, Supervisor Jew's Attorney: "Supervisor Jew and I have refused to waive time. There's been a lot of discussion by various city officials about dragging this matter on."

As for the supervisor, he says the large crowd outside is indicative of the support he's receiving.

Ed Jew: "I am just overwhelmed and so happy to see so many individuals so bright and early here."

Fazio says he's heard about other politicians who may have divided their time between their district homes and other residences, although he did not name names.

Bill Fazio: "We may have a motion demanding the district attorney provide us with any information about similar charges if ever brought, and why they weren't brought. Has Supervisor Jew been singled out for some political or other reason?"

District Attorney Kamala Harris declined to go on camera, but she did release this brief statement, which says in part, "the law dictates that each member of the board reside in the district that he or she represents. We look forward to prosecuting this case."

Since Jew has refused to waive time, the preliminary hearing could start as early as 10 days from now.

Meantime, the prosecution wants Jew's passport confiscated if his bail is reduced. Jew still faces civil charges from the city attorney and the F.B.I. investigation into a $40,000 dollar cash payment he accepted from some businessmen who had permit problems.

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