Graham Speaks

Having beaten the resulting federal criminal charges, Bob Graham fielded questions Thursday on MetroNews' Talkline about his tenure at Wyoming County's Council on Aging.

Graham lashed out at federal prosecutors, the media and state Attorney General Darrell McGraw while defending the pay and perks he received while the agency's director.

"In March 2002, Graham signed a contract for a base salary of $185,000 with the Council on Aging," MetroNews explains. "That contract included 54 days of paid vacation time a year along with 24 days of paid sick leave, 18 state holidays and overtime. Graham's contract included a number of other bonuses like a company car."

Graham cited such other nonprofits as Charleston Area Medical Center and West Virginia University Hospitals to conclude that his compensation package was not excessive.

"I can say that it was justified by salary studies and based on the number of years and the growth in the companies," Graham told Talkline host Hoppy Kercheval.

Graham also said he is seeking the return of his seized retirement account, "valued $300,000 at one point," MetroNews reported.

MetroNews also offers audio from the interview.