Alton McClinton, Bribery Using Interstate Commerce, Louisiana 2019

NEW ORLEANS, LA – Alton McClinton, 54, of New Orleans, Louisiana, admitted in federal court yesterday to shaking down citizens for cash in exchange for turning a blind eye to building code violations. The former Jefferson Parish building inspector pleaded guilty to a one-count bill of information charging him with using interstate commerce to promote unlawful activity, a violation of 18 U.S.C. § 1952(a)(3). The scheme netted McClinton at least $3,000.

According to court documents, McClinton, who began his tenure with the Jefferson Parish Department of Inspection and Code Enforcement around 2014, was responsible for ensuring buildings met parish standards and investigating zoning complaints. Instead, he allegedly used his position to line his own pockets. On at least ten separate occasions, McClinton demanded between $150 and $500 from individuals to falsely report no zoning violations existed, or to falsely certify that buildings had passed inspection when he hadn’t even bothered to look at them.

The inspector then reportedly entered this fraudulent information into Jefferson Parish’s online inspection systems, effectively whitewashing the illegal activity. While most bribes were paid in cash, at least one came in the form of a check, directly linking the payer to the corrupt deal. The scheme involved both zoning violations and building code failures, demonstrating a widespread willingness to compromise public safety for personal gain. The details paint a picture of systemic corruption within the department.

Facing the music, McClinton now faces a maximum sentence of five (5) years in prison, a hefty fine of up to $250,000.00, and up to three (3) years of supervised release following his incarceration. A mandatory $100 special assessment will also be levied. The sentencing hearing is scheduled for July 30, 2019, before United States District Judge Jay C. Zainey.

U.S. Attorney Peter G. Strasser lauded the work of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) and the Jefferson Parish Office of the Inspector General in uncovering the scheme. The investigation highlights the ongoing battle against corruption at the local level. Assistant United States Attorney Jordan Ginsberg, who heads the Public Corruption Unit, is leading the prosecution.

Grimy Times will continue to follow this case and report on any further developments. This conviction serves as a stark reminder that even those entrusted with upholding the law are not above it, and that corruption, no matter how localized, will be exposed and prosecuted.

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