The criminal actions of another democratic delegate come home to roost, as a federal jury convicted Democratic delegate Sharpe James of five felony offenses in his corruption trial. AP: A federal jury convicted ex-Mayor Sharpe James and his former mistress Wednesday of corruption stemming from the cut-rate sale of city land.
James was found guilty on all five charges he faced, including fraud and conspiracy. Under federal guidelines, he could face seven to eight years in prison, but a judge could impose as much as 20 years on some individual counts. James could also be stripped of pensions that provide a six-figure annual income.
His ex-girlfriend, Tamika Riley, was convicted on the same five charges and eight others, including evading taxes and cheating to obtain subsidized housing assistance for herself. She faces a similar possible sentence.
Neither James nor Riley showed any emotion as the verdicts were read. The two and their lawyers declined comment afterward.
Both remain free on bail. Sentencing was set for July 29.
Previous dem delegates in legal trouble:
