Bridgeport, CT – In a shocking turn of events, former Bridgeport City Councilman Michael DeFilippo, 37, pleaded guilty today to a civil rights offense related to his run for Bridgeport City Council in 2017 and 2018. The guilty plea was announced by Vanessa Roberts Avery, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, and Robert Fuller, Special Agent in Charge of the New Haven Division of the Federal Bureau of Investigation.
According to court documents and statements made in court, DeFilippo stole and falsified Voter Registration Applications and absentee balloting documents, forged signatures, and submitted fraudulent election documents to election officials in the name of some of his tenants who resided in the 133rd District. This crime caused Bridgeport and Connecticut election officials acting under color of law to deprive DeFilippo’s tenants of their right to vote by counting stolen ballots, and to deprive all 133rd District voters of their right to have their votes fully counted by diluting election results with fraudulent registrations and ballots.
DeFilippo’s conduct was a brazen attempt to manipulate the democratic process and ensure his own election to the Bridgeport City Council. The former councilman’s actions have left a stain on the city’s electoral process and have undermined the trust of its citizens.
As a member of the Bridgeport City Council representing the 133rd District, DeFilippo had a duty to uphold the law and protect the rights of his constituents. Instead, he chose to use his position to commit a egregious act of voter suppression and election fraud.
DeFilippo pleaded guilty to deprivation of rights under color of law and faces a maximum term of imprisonment of one year and a fine of up to $100,000. He is currently released on bond pending sentencing.
This case is a stark reminder of the importance of holding public officials accountable for their actions. The Federal Bureau of Investigation and the U.S. Attorney’s Office have demonstrated their commitment to protecting the rights of all citizens and ensuring the integrity of the electoral process.
The investigation and prosecution of DeFilippo’s crimes are a testament to the tireless efforts of law enforcement and prosecutors who work tirelessly to uphold the law and protect the public trust.
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Key Facts
- State: Connecticut
- Agency: DOJ USAO
- Category: Public Corruption
- Source: Official Source ↗
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