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Bribery Scheme Rocks DC Government
Vernita M. Greenfield, a former customer services representative for the District of Columbia’s Department of Public Works, has pleaded guilty to a federal charge stemming from a scheme in which she accepted more than $35,000 in bribes in return for giving favorable treatment to a towing company.
According to court documents, Greenfield, 56, of Washington, D.C., was arrested by the FBI at her office on Nov. 23, 2015. She pleaded guilty to a charge of receipt of a bribe by a public official, which carries a statutory maximum of 15 years in prison and potential financial penalties.
Under federal sentencing guidelines, Greenfield faces a likely range of 24 to 30 months in prison and a fine of $10,000 to $95,000. She is also subject to a forfeiture money judgment in the amount of $35,300. The Honorable Senior Judge Paul L. Friedman scheduled sentencing for July 19, 2016.
“This government employee took advantage of her position for her own financial gain,” said U.S. Attorney Channing D. Phillips. “The prosecution of this case reflects our commitment to rooting out corruption whenever it exists, as it is imperative for citizens to have faith in their government.”
Greenfield worked in the Parking Enforcement Management Administration, a branch of the Department of Public Works. The branch is responsible for the removal of abandoned and dangerous vehicles, as well as ticketing, towing, booting, and impoundment of vehicles that are in violation of District of Columbia parking regulations.
According to a statement of offense submitted in the plea proceedings, Greenfield and the owner of the towing company came to an agreement in which the owner would deposit between $200 and $500 per week into Greenfield’s bank account. In exchange, she agreed to divert towing assignments from other companies on the rotational list to the towing company.
Key Facts
- State: Washington DC
- Category: Public Corruption
- Source: DOJ Press Release â†â€â€
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