Ex-coal CEO gets 1 year in prison for deadly mine blast

CHARLESTON, W.Va. (AP) — A judge sentenced former coal executive Don Blankenship to a year in prison today for his role in the deadliest U.S. mine explosion in four decades, saying he was part of a "dangerous conspiracy."

One day after the sixth anniversary of the Upper Big Branch Mine explosion, which killed 29 men, U.S. District Judge Irene Berger gave the ex-Massey Energy CEO the maximum prison time and fined him the maximum $250,000. A federal jury convicted Blankenship on Dec. 3 of a misdemeanor conspiracy to violate mine safety standards at Upper Big Branch.

Blankenship spoke briefly during the sentencing hearing and said he wanted to reassure the families of the fallen miners that they were "great guys, great coal miners."

"It is important to everyone that you know that I'm not guilty of a crime," Blankenship said.

Blankenship's attorneys contended he should receive probation and a fine, at most. The judge denied their motion for Blankenship to remain free as he appeals. It's not clear when he must report to prison.

Outside the courthouse, a few family members of miners who were killed started yelling at Blankenship.

"We buried our kid because of you. I got to go to the grave to see my kid's casket," Robert Atkins said.

Blankenship and his attorneys were ushered into an awaiting van by about a half-dozen law enforcement officers.