Last December, we told you about Boston City Councilor Tania Fernandes Anderson, who was arrested on federal charges of corruption in a ‘kickback’ scheme. She was defiant at the time but now she has apologized and announced her plans to resign.
Fernandes Anderson has pleaded guilty to a count of wire fraud and theft.
NBC News in Boston reports:
‘Forgive me’: Boston city councilor pleading guilty over kickback scheme, resigningBoston City Councilor Tania Fernandes Anderson is set to plead guilty in her federal corruption case, she confirmed Tuesday, and said she’s resigning…Fernandes Anderson had faced calls to step down in light of the five counts of aiding and abetting wire fraud and one of aiding and abetting theft concerning programs receiving federal funds she was initially charged with. She was arrested on suspicion of funneling part of an inflated bonus payment through a relative of hers on her staff into her own pockets during an exchange at a City Hall bathroom.The 46-year-old, who represents Dorchester, Roxbury, Fenway and parts of the South End, is pleading guilty to a count each of wire fraud and theft involving federal funds, according to a copy of the plea agreement shared by prosecutors in the U.S. Attorney’s Office for Massachusetts. Four counts are being dropped.Prosecutors are recommending that she serve a year and one day in prison, with three years of probation. They also recommended that she pay $13,000 in restitution.
The report includes her full statement on the matter:
I have decided to plead guilty and resolve the case brought against me. I would like to apologize to my constituents, supporters, and all who have been impacted.Please forgive me.I will be resigning. It is the right thing to do. In coming days, I will evaluate transition plans and timeline with the District 7 Advisory Council. I will do everything possible to make an orderly exit to ensure my constituents’ needs are met.I will have more to say at the appropriate time in court but I will not be commenting further beyond this statement. I pray that the press will respect my privacy, as well as the privacy of my family.
This video report from WBZ News in Boston includes some comments from Mayor Michelle Wu.
Boston may hold a special election to fill the vacant seat. I fully expect the voters of the city to replace her with another Democrat.
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