It appears another scandal is brewing at Detroit City Hall? Federal agents are investigating a possible case of public corruption involving some Detroit City Council members. Sources have told WWJ's Vickie Thomas the investigation is focused on a $125 million contract with a wastewater treatment company called Synagro, which wants to build a new plant in southwest Detroit. Council voted five to four to approve the deal with the Houston-based company, despite loud opposition from residents in southwest Detroit.
The U.S. Attorney's office wouldn't comment to WWJ. According to the Detroit Free Press, Council President Ken Cockrel's Chief of Staff John Clark resigned this week after FBI agents showed Cockrel videotape of Clark accepting money on two separate occasions. Agents have asked questions about people inside and outside Detroit city government, including Councilwoman Monica Conyers.
It should also be noted that no charges have been filed at this time. Federal investigations take months or even years to complete.
Criminal defense attorney, Steve Fishman, is reportedly representing Conyers in the probe. Fishman told the Detroit Free Press that "It is extremely irresponsible for anyone to have leaked information to the press about an investigation that may or may not be under way," he said. "If the time comes when I receive information from someone other than a newspaper reporter, I might be able to give an intelligent response."
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