Former Detroit Mayor Kwame Kilpatrick and the former city treasurer are facing new federal allegations that they received $125,000 worth of private jet travel and other benefits in an influence-peddling scheme.
The U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission alleges that Kilpatrick, who was once dubbed the “hip-hop mayor,” and former treasurer Jeffrey Beasley were “involved in a secret exchange of lavish gifts to peddle influence over the funds’ investment process.”
“It is a disappointing day when pension fund trustees such as ex-Mayor Kilpatrick and others corrupt the investment process by selling out hardworking police officers, firefighters and other municipal employees for the price of a few vacations and paltry extras like concert tickets and rounds of golf,” stated Robert Khuzami, the SEC enforcement director.
Kilpatrick, who was forced to resign in 2008 over scandals, has already served 99 days in jail after pleading guilty to assaulting a police officer who attempted to subpoena a friend of his.
He then served 14 months in prison over a parole violation, and faces even more charges for extortion, bribery, and fraud.
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