Federal prosecutors this afternoon continued a tough redirect examination of former Performance Coal Company president Chris Blanchard.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Steve Ruby had Blanchard read aloud from a U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission – previously entered into evidence – which showed Massey reported more than $50 million in profits in 2008.

“Was it enough?” Ruby asked.

“Enough what?” Blanchard answered.

“Enough profit,” Ruby said.

“It was profit, sir. I can’t answer that question,” Blanchard said.

Ruby had Blanchard read from another SEC filing that showed Massey reported more than $100 million in profits in 2009. Again, Ruby asked Blanchard, “Was that enough profit?”

“Again, sir, I can’t answer that question,” Blanchard said.

Ruby asked Blanchard if Massey’s level of profits provided any reason to commit preventable violations of safety laws.
Blanchard responded, “No, sir.”