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Former Tennessee State Representative Charged with Honest Services Wire Fraud
A former high-ranking state official in Tennessee has been found guilty of a serious federal crime. Former Tennessee State Representative Robin Smith, 58, of Hixson, Tennessee, pleaded guilty today to a single count of honest services wire fraud, following charges filed on Friday, for an unknown date.
According to a criminal Information filed Friday in U.S. District Court, Smith, representing Tennessee House District 26, engaged in a fraudulent scheme with others to contract with Phoenix Solutions, LLC to provide mail and consulting services for members of the Tennessee General Assembly. Smith and others falsely claimed that Phoenix Solutions was operated by an experienced political consultant named “Matthew Phoenix.” In fact, “Matthew Phoenix” was a fictitious person.
Smith received kickbacks in exchange for using her position to pressure the Tennessee House Speaker’s Office to approve Phoenix Solutions as a Mailer Program vendor and disperse State funds to Phoenix Solutions. The Information also alleged that in September and December 2020, Smith received two checks from Phoenix Solutions totaling more than $24,000, which she deposited into her consulting firm’s bank account.
The case against Smith was investigated by the FBI. Assistant U.S. Attorney Amanda J. Klopf and Trial Attorney John P. Taddei of the Justice Department’s Public Integrity Section are prosecuting the case.
Smith will be sentenced on October 17, 2022 in U.S. District Court. The charges against her carry significant penalties, and it remains to be seen what sentence she will ultimately receive.
This case highlights the ongoing efforts of law enforcement and prosecutors to hold public officials accountable for their actions. It serves as a reminder that no one is above the law, and those who abuse their power will be held to account.
As this case continues to unfold, it will be important to stay informed about the latest developments and to follow the progress of this high-profile case.
Robin Smith, Honest Services Wire Fraud, Tennessee 2022
Key Facts
- State: Tennessee
- Category: Public Corruption
- Source: DOJ Press Release â†â€â€
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