Opinion ID: 714054
Heading Depth: 2
Heading Rank: 2

Heading: Hickok's Version(s) of Events

Text: 20 Investigators for USC interviewed Hickok in February of 1993 and obtained a seven-page, handwritten statement from him outlining the events of the previous year (this statement, which Hickok provided voluntarily, was later admitted at his trial). In his account, Hickok admitted making substantial payments to DeWitt and receiving USC equipment that could be resold and a commission derived from that resale. Hickok explained: 21 It was in my best interest for [DeWitt] to stay in his position [at USC] since my relationship with United States Cellular through Bobby DeWitt had become so lucrative. In total, I considered the payments to [DeWitt] a cost of doing business. I understand that these payments could be considered as kickbacks. These payments were not loans. (emphasis added). 22 In his trial testimony, Hickok provided a different version of events. As Hickok now maintained, the first purchase of USC equipment (in Arizona) was entirely DeWitt's idea, and, further, DeWitt had given him the impression that the used telephone equipment belonged to him and not USC. Hickok also asserted that $1,100 (not $1,000) was the agreed-upon price for this equipment. 23 Hickok admitted that on various occasions he gave money to DeWitt, whom he described as a very likeable young man with a young family who had taught [him] everything [he] knew about the cellular business. However, Hickok denied receiving anything in exchange for this assistance to his associate. 24 With respect to the unpaid-for equipment that Hickok obtained on open invoice at the Logansport office, Hickok testified that he intended to pay for this equipment (as well as the unpaid service bills) with his November and December commission checks (these checks were held up for several months because of the ongoing Lyday audit). 25 Hickok was so eager to obtain the November and December commission checks that he agreed to be interviewed by two private investigators working for USC. According to Hickok's testimony, these investigators composed and dictated the handwritten statement that was subsequently introduced at his trial.