14 DAY TRIAL // Former Detroit Mayor Kwame Kilpatrick has been convicted by a jury on corruption charges ranging from extortion, to bribery, tax evasion and receiving and demanding kickbacks.
“I saw a lot that really, really turned my stomach, and I couldn't believe this kind of thing was going on... but there was never any anger. Disappointment is all I feel,” one juror describes.
The conviction follows a five-month trial in which 80 witnesses testified against Kilpatrick, Detroit Free Press reveals. The state brought in video and audio clips that featured Kilpatrick in the act, as well as text messages and bank statements.
Kilpatrick has been found guilty on 24 out of the 30 counts he was charged with, and is facing several years in prison.
The convictions for racketeering and mail fraud can both bring upon 20-year sentences, while a maximum of 10 years can be added to that for each count of bribery and extortion.
“Although this investigation spanned many years, this case is not about the past. It is about the future. This verdict has sent a powerful message that corruption will not be tolerated in this community.
“The people of Detroit deserve better and expect better,” U.S. Attorney Barbara McQuade has said after the trial.
“Candidates should seek public office to make a difference, not to make money for themselves,” she adds.
Kilpatrick's friend and accomplice Bobby Ferguson has also been convicted on nine counts, and his father Bernard Kilpatrick has been found guilty on one out of four counts.
Contractors would be extorted and forced to work with Ferguson if they hoped to do business in Detroit. Public bids would be rigged in order to ensure their collaboration with Ferguson, which would also bring about a payday for Kilpatrick.
Bernard Kilpatrick played in by providing his services as a consultant to said contractors, after them being shook down by the mayor.