Paul,

I agree a straight-up guilty plea would have been better for the case against Black.

But I do think there’s a positive step involved in Black saying — while television cameras are rolling — that he admits to the cash follies with chiropractors. Legally, that’s no change from last week’s activity, but it certainly adds to the public’s perception of his guilt. (Just a few minutes ago, I saw the soundbite playing on a local television newscast.)

All we saw of Black last week was a shot of him walking into the federal courthouse. We saw no handcuffs. Those of us outside the courtroom (including most of the public) heard none of his answers to Judge Dever’s questions.

Nothing in the state proceeding required him to make this statement. He could have remained tightlipped. The fact that he volunteered his guilt to at least some crime makes it harder for his apologists to concoct any stories that absolve him from guilt.

The final verdict on Jim Black will probably depend on what information he surrenders in the weeks ahead.