Former D.C. Official Indicted, Used Grant Money For 2009 Inaugural Celebration

It was a night of music and celebration following the inauguration of President Obama in 2009. But according to federal prosecutors, the former director of D.C.’s Committee of Parks and Recreation, Neil Rodgers, helped pay for the party with $110,000 in grants meant for youth and drug prevention.

"This is really hurtful to the citizens," said Kathy Henderson with the D.C. Advisory Neighborhood Commission. Henders knows Neil Rodgers, and added: "Neil is likable, he can be funny. We've worked with him over the years. It's really sad to see that he is involved in this. Really disheartening"

Rodgers, a top aide to former D.C. Council member Harry Thomas Jr., is the latest public official tied to Thomas’ criminal activities.
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