Redflex lobbyist: ‘guilty…but not of bribery, not conspiracy’
Columbus lobbyist John Raphael appeared in federal court on Thursday to plead guilty to a charge of interference with commerce (extortion). The move was previewed publicly two weeks ago when word that a plea agreement between Raphael and prosecutors was reached.
In leaving the courthouse, Raphael was clear with the media in stating the charge …what it was and what it wasn’t. “Not bribery. Not conspiracy.”
The case involved the red light camera company Redflex. Evidence shows company representatives funneled money to the campaigns of local elected officials to gain and extend contracts with the city.
10TV reports court documents showing Raphael’s involvement going back at least ten years.. Since 2005, Redflex has given more than $70,000 to Ohio elected officials. (jj)
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