Ex-Md. delegate admits to accepting bribes; more officials investigated in corruption probe
GREENBELT, Md. — A former Maryland delegate from Prince George’s County collected an estimated $40,000 worth of bribes in exchange for directing tax-supported grants to certain nonprofit organizations, among other favors, and he even directed those soliciting his help to create fake entities to receive the grant money, according to federal prosecutors.
William A. Campos-Escobar, 42 of Hyattsville, has pleaded guilty to federal bribery and conspiracy charges, according to U.S. Attorney for Maryland Rod Rosenstein’s office, which released details of an unsealed plea deal with Campos on Tuesday.
The charges stem from a multiyear public corruption probe that has also resulted in federal charges against two members of the Prince George’s County liquor board and two local businessmen. Campos and another unnamed state legislator were implicated in the liquor board charges that were filed last week.
The entire US political system is nothing more than legalized bribery. Why else would you donate large sums of money to a candidate, if you didn't expect a favor in return? I get the small donations for idealistic reasons, but when you cross a certain monetary threshold outside of the norm, it becomes an implied bribe. Election spending reform is needed now more than ever. Limit how much can be spent for each position and much of the corruption will go away. I can't think of a faster way to drain the swamp.
Corruption runs deep - even at the local level. Renewable developers and lobbyist are some of the biggest culprits, using our taxes and utility payments to do it. That is why Somerset County leaders have sold out their citizens to wind, solar, and now biogas. All of which lower property values, and harm the local environment while increasing the cost of electricity for all of us.
The entire US political system is nothing more than legalized bribery. Why else would you donate large sums of money to a candidate, if you didn't expect a favor in return? I get the small donations for idealistic reasons, but when you cross a certain monetary threshold outside of the norm, it becomes an implied bribe.
ReplyDeleteElection spending reform is needed now more than ever. Limit how much can be spent for each position and much of the corruption will go away. I can't think of a faster way to drain the swamp.
Corruption runs deep - even at the local level. Renewable developers and lobbyist are some of the biggest culprits, using our taxes and utility payments to do it. That is why Somerset County leaders have sold out their citizens to wind, solar, and now biogas. All of which lower property values, and harm the local environment while increasing the cost of electricity for all of us.
ReplyDeleteWhy no party affiliation reported?
ReplyDeleteA lot of these non profits need to be investigated.
ReplyDeleteGREAT example why counties should NOT be in the Liquor business!
ReplyDeleteSure hope that "stuff" didn't happen around these parts. Sure wouldn't want the Comptroller yelling at us AGAIN...(coughcough)