Rep. Tierney Addresses Illegal Gambling Accusations

U.S. Rep. John Tierney is defending himself after his two brothers-in-law said the congressman had been aware that their offshore gambling operation was illegal.

The Salem Democrat, who is seeking a ninth term in the House of Representatives, told reporters on Tuesday that he had believed until recently that the gambling business in Antigua was legitimate.

Tierney's brother-in-law, Daniel Eremian, said last week after he was sentenced to three years in federal prison that Tierney "knew everything" about the operation.

Robert Eremian, who's a fugitive from justice, made similar claims in an interview with The Boston Globe.

Tierney, who has not been charged with wrongdoing, said his brothers-in-law are "trying to blame anyone but themselves."

The congressman's wife, Patrice Tierney, pleaded guilty last year to helping file false tax returns for her brother.