LAS VEGAS, Nev.
A former Las Vegas City Councilman pleaded guilty today to orchestrating a scheme to steal tens of thousands of dollars from his reelection campaign.
Ricki Barlow, 46, of Las Vegas, Nevada, pleaded guilty to one count of wire fraud before U.S. District Judge Andrew P. Gordon of the District of Nevada.
Sentencing is set for May 31, 2018.
Ricki Barlow abused his position of trust and concocted a scheme to line his own pockets, said Acting Assistant Attorney General Cronan.
According to admissions made in connection with his guilty plea, Barlow was a candidate for re-election to the Las Vegas City Council in 2015, for which Barlow solicited donations from members of the Las Vegas community to his campaign, Ricki Barlow for City Council.
Barlow admitted to orchestrating a kickback scheme whereby he hired friends and associates to work as campaign vendors, submit inflated invoices at his direction, and then kick back to Barlow approximately half of their campaign paychecks, typically in the form of cash.
Barlow admitted to secretly diverting $49,125 in campaign funds for his own personal use and benefit through the kickback scheme.
Barlow also admitted to accepting an additional $17,000 in cash campaign contributions that he never reported to his campaign treasurer or transmitted to the campaign.
The FBI investigated the case.
Barlow’s actions harmed the community by undermining the public’s confidence in their elected leaders and government, said U.S. Attorney Elieson.
The public trust must be something that is cherished by all who serve in positions of public office, said Special Agent in Charge Rouse.
The FBI will continue to root out public corruption where it exists.
Defendant:
Ricki Barlow
Criminal Charges:
One count of wire fraud
City and State:
Las Vegas, Nevada
Exact Date:
Not specified, but sentencing is set for May 31, 2018
Sentence or Outcome:
Pending sentencing
Dollar Amounts:
$49,125 in campaign funds and $17,000 in cash campaign contributions
Key Facts
- State: Nevada
- Category: Public Corruption
- Source: DOJ Press Release â†â€â€
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