Any public official who accepts a gratuity in exchange for an official act is subject to varying charges. Likewise, a private individual or corporation who offers or pays the gratuity is also subject to potential criminal charges. Federally, these allegations typically result in charges based on the deprivation of honest services – i.e., because of the bribery, the public was denied the expected honest services of the individual. Charges of public corruption are frequently seen in redevelopment projects and international corruption, such as violations of the Foreign Corrupt Practices Act (“FCPA”). Misappropriation of public money is also considered public corruption but may be charged as mail or wire fraud as well.
Representative Matters
- Federal diversion granted to high profile business owner under investigation for public corruption for attempting to bribe an IRS agent.
- Department of Justice declined prosecution of INS agent under investigation for public corruption for taking bribes to naturalized citizens.
- Acquittal of Los Angeles Sheriff’s Deputy in jury trial with charges of public corruption.
- Top secret security status granted to high level employee under investigation for corruption.
