HOUSTON, TX – In a shocking turn of events, three members of the Vela family have pleaded guilty to bribery charges in a long-running scandal that has shaken the small town of Progreso, Texas.
The defendants, Jose Vela, 65, Michael Vela, 30, and Orlando Vela, 33, all admitted to participating in a scheme to create a ‘pay to play’ public contracting system in Progreso, where contractors were required to pay bribes to secure contracts with the Progreso Independent School District (PISD) and the City of Progreso.
The scheme, which lasted from 2004 to 2013, saw the Velas extract more than $300,000 in bribe payments from contractors, including a local architect, his firm, a construction company, and the school board attorney.
According to the plea agreement, Michael and Omar Vela, who is the mayor of Progreso, had a level of control over local government, while Jose Vela controlled the PISD School Board by rewarding board members who voted as he directed with bribe money.
Orlando Vela, who is employed by PISD as a risk manager, pleaded guilty to theft from a program receiving federal funds in a separate case. He was accused of submitting fake invoices to PISD for office and janitorial products, totaling $12,874.42.
The Velas face up to 10 years in federal prison for the bribery involving federal programs convictions, as well as a maximum fine of $250,000. Their sentencing is set for July 25, 2014.
The scandal has left the community reeling, with many calling for greater transparency and accountability in government contracting practices.
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Key Facts
- State: Texas
- Category: Public Corruption
- Source: DOJ Press Release â†â€â€
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