Out-of-state developers recently approached officials in Jackson, Mississippi, in a bribery scheme that turned out to be a sting operation by the FBI. Hinds County District Attorney Jody Owens, Mayor Chokwe Antar Lumumba, and City Council member Aaron Banks were indicted on conspiracy and bribery charges as a result. Other individuals, including a City Council member and a relative of Owens, have also pleaded guilty to conspiracy to commit bribery. The FBI agents posed as developers from Nashville and worked with Owens to secure support for a phony hotel deal in exchange for cash and perks.
The developers flew various officials to private meetings on jets and yachts, offering cash bribes and other incentives. Owens allegedly boasted about his power to influence votes and secure support for the project. Owens and Smith negotiated a $250,000 payout for their efforts, with Owens accepting $125,000 in cash on a yacht in Florida.
The scheme involved manipulating deadlines for development proposals and funneling funds through campaign finance accounts. Angelique Lee, a former City Council member, resigned and pleaded guilty to conspiracy to commit bribery in connection with the case.
The indictment paints a picture of corruption among individuals entrusted with public office in a city that has faced numerous challenges, including infrastructure breakdowns and financial disputes. The City Council is now dealing with the aftermath of the scandal as they continue with their governance duties.
Photo credit
www.nbcnews.com
:quality(70)/cloudfront-us-east-1.images.arcpublishing.com/adn/K5NEJNZWU5DCTFESCJHTZ24SAA.jpg "The Rugby Community in Alaska Looks to Build on Alev Kelter and Team USA’s Olympic Success")
