Ex-Deputy Cops to Bribery Conspiracy

A former Orleans Parish deputy has admitted to taking part in a bribery scheme that lined his pockets with thousands of dollars in free work and goods. Gerard J. Hoffman, Jr., 59, of Mandeville, pleaded guilty to conspiracy to commit bribery in a U.S. District Court in Louisiana.

According to court documents, Hoffman, the former head of the maintenance department at the Orleans Parish Sheriff’s Office, began receiving favors from a contractor, Businessman B, in exchange for a rigged bidding system. From 2007 through 2011, Businessman B submitted bids for OPSO work in the name of his respective company, but also submitted phony bids for these same projects in the names of other local companies.

The phony bids would intentionally be higher than the bids from Businessman B, and consequently, the OPSO work would be awarded to Businessman B with Hoffman’s participation and knowledge. In exchange for this rigged bidding process, Hoffman received several things of value from Businessman B, including a trailer, a storage container, and free maintenance and construction work at a house owned by Hoffman.

Prosecutors said Hoffman received at least $5,000, but less than $10,000 in things of value from Businessman B in exchange for his official acts at the OPSO. Hoffman faces a maximum penalty of five years imprisonment, three years supervised release, a $250,000 fine, and a $100 special assessment. Sentencing has been scheduled for June 20, 2013.

The case against Hoffman is a stark reminder of the corruption that can permeate even the highest levels of law enforcement. Hoffman’s actions not only betrayed the public trust but also put the integrity of the OPSO’s operations at risk.

Hoffman’s guilty plea is a significant development in the ongoing effort to root out corruption in Louisiana’s law enforcement agencies. As the Grimy Times continues to investigate this case, we will provide updates on the sentencing and any other developments that may arise.

Download the Factual Basis for more information on the case against Gerard J. Hoffman, Jr. Link

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