Bribery trial continues Tuesday for former Milwaukee County supervisor
MILWAUKEE- A bribery trial was to continue Tuesday for former Milwaukee County Supervisor Johnny Thomas.
Thomas is accused of two felonies: Accepting a bribe in public office and misconduct in public office.
Prosecutors say that Thomas took an envelope filled with $500 during a sting operation back in December.
Five current or former aides to Milwaukee County Executive Chris Abele are among those who may be called as witnesses. Journal Sentinel reporter Steve Schultz reports that other possible witnesses include county Supervisor Patricia Jursik and former Supervisor Lynne De Bruin.
Patrick Farley, director of the county's administrative services department, took the lead in a sting operation that involved the Milwaukee County District Attorney's office.
He apparently had suspicions about how Thomas was handling business contracts with the county as chairman of the County Board's Finance and Audit Committee.
Farley arranged a meeting at a downtown Dunkin' Donuts and gave Thomas $500 for a financial services contract. The contract was approved soon after.
"What the evidence will show is a rushed conclusion, and a very aggressive undercover scheme," said Thomas' defense attorney Craig Mastantuono.
The trial is expected to last all week. It isn't clear if Thomas will testify.
Click here to read more about the charges against Johnny Thomas.
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