New Orleans, LA – In a stunning revelation of political corruption in the Big Easy, Ira Thomas, 56, a member of the Orleans Parish School Board (OPSB), has been charged with conspiracy to commit federal bribery and honest services wire fraud.
The U.S. Attorney Kenneth A. Polite and FBI Special Agent in Charge Michael Anderson announced the charges today, detailing an alleged scheme that began in September 2013 and continued until January 2015.
According to the Bill of Information, Thomas, while serving as a School Board member, was involved in a kickback scheme aimed at defrauding Orleans Parish and its citizens. The allegations state that he used his position to provide favorable treatment to a businessperson who, in exchange, provided him with a cash bribe disguised as a campaign contribution.
“Today’s announcement should send a message to those public officials who are engaging in corruption,” stated U.S. Attorney Polite. “This is about more than just politics; it’s about the trust we place in our public servants.”
The investigation revealed that Thomas and a cooperating witness discussed altering the bidding process for a janitorial services contract, valued over $5,000. The CW was to pay $5,000 to Thomas as part of the scheme, which was recorded and documented by the FBI.
If convicted, Thomas faces up to five years in prison, a $250,000 fine, and three years of supervised release. The government has also filed a Notice of Forfeiture, indicating its intention to seize any property or profits related to the alleged crime.
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Key Facts
- State: Louisiana
- Agency: DOJ USAO
- Category: Public Corruption|White Collar Crime
- Source: Official Source ↗
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