Jerome Oberlton, Kickback Scheme, Georgia 2007

ATLANTA, GA – In a shocking turn of events, Jerome Oberlton, the former Chief Information Officer (CIO) for Atlanta Public Schools, has been indicted for his alleged involvement in a kickback scheme.

Oberlton, 47, of Dallas, Texas, is accused of awarding a $780,000 computer project to a bidder in exchange for bribes paid to himself and his acquaintance, Mahendra Patel, 45, of Kennesaw, Ga.

According to the indictment, Oberlton used his influence as CIO to influence the request for proposal process and ultimately caused the winning bidder to be selected in exchange for kickbacks.

The indictment charges that Oberlton and Patel received approximately $60,000 in bribes for nearly six months, with the computer company receiving almost $800,000 in APS project work.

Oberlton and Patel are charged with conspiracy to defraud APS, conspiracy under color of official right, money laundering conspiracy, mail fraud, and wire fraud, each carrying a maximum term of 20 years in prison and a fine of $250,000.

The defendants are also charged with bribery and money laundering, each carrying a statutory maximum penalty of 10 years in prison and a $250,000 fine.

Oberlton and Patel made their initial appearances on June 4, 2013, before United States Magistrate Judge Russell Vineyard and were released on a $25,000 bond.

The public is reminded that criminal charges are only allegations, and a defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty.

Oberlton’s alleged actions as CIO have left many in the Atlanta community questioning the integrity of the school district’s procurement process.

The FBI, in designating public corruption matters as its number one criminal program priority, asks that anyone with information regarding such activity contact their nearest FBI field office.

The indictment has sparked outrage among parents and educators, who are demanding greater transparency and accountability in the school district’s operations.

As the investigation continues, one thing is clear: the alleged actions of Jerome Oberlton and Mahendra Patel have compromised the trust of the Atlanta community.

The defendants’ next court appearance is scheduled for [insert date].

The case is being investigated by the FBI, IRS Criminal Investigation, and the United States Attorney’s Office.

Oberlton’s lawyer has declined to comment on the allegations.

The APS school district has released a statement saying it is cooperating fully with the investigation.

The school district has also announced plans to implement new procurement procedures to prevent similar incidents in the future.

Oberlton’s alleged actions serve as a reminder of the importance of accountability and transparency in public institutions.

The community will be watching closely as this case unfolds.