Apr 16, 2008 7:21 pm US/Eastern
Ex-Newark Mayor Sharpe James Guilty Of Corruption
Found Guilty On All Counts; Could Face 4 1/2 To 6 Years In Prison
Reporting
Jay Dow
NEWARK, N.J. (CBS) ―
A stunning fall from power: Former Newark Mayor Sharpe James is now facing serious prison time after being convicted on corruption charges.
For twenty years, James ruled over every aspect of city government. On Wednesday however, he is a convicted felon, found guilty on all counts by a federal jury for abusing his powers.
"I hope the people of the state of New Jersey understand today, that no one, no one is above the law. If you betray the public trust, you will be held to account," said New Jersey U.S. Attorney, Chris Christie.
The jury found James guilty of fraud for conspiring to arrange the heavily discounted sale of nine city properties to his mistress, Tamika Riley, who in turn quickly resold them for more than $600,000 profit. Riley, a co-defendant, was also found guilty on all counts.
"The model of government that Sharpe James used was basically about enriching himself and his friends. And today, the jury is speaking loud and clear that government is for the people – not for the personal profit of the politicians," said Anne Milgram.
"Every time I looked out the window, there was another building with Sharpe James' name on it. And every time I looked out the window, I saw another memorial," said Raheem O'neal of Newark.
In a written statement, Newark Mayor Cory Booker said:
"It is a sad day for the City of Newark. Sharpe James served as mayor for 20 years and despite today's revelation, had many accomplishments during this time. My prayers are with him, his family and our city as a whole."
Even though the prosecution called more than three-dozen witnesses during the trial, some James' supporters say they're still standing by him.
"His legacy can never be erased," said one Newark resident.
James' sentencing is scheduled for July 29. Under federal sentencing guidelines, the former mayor of the largest city in New Jersey will likely serve anywhere from 4 ½ to 6 years in prison. Prosecutors have not ruled out moving forward with another trial against James. He's accused of using city-issued credit cards to pay for personal expenses.
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