North Charleston Councilman's Guilty Plea: A Corruption Case Unfolds

Mike Brown, a former North Charleston Councilman, made a significant admission recently. He pleaded guilty to conspiracy to commit bribery and wire fraud, just a week before his trial was set to begin.

A Day of Admission

Brown, 47, appeared in a Charleston courthouse and admitted his wrongdoing. He even wiped his eyes after signing the plea agreement. This is a big deal because it's part of a larger investigation into corruption in North Charleston.

The Beginning of Legal Troubles

Brown's legal troubles started nearly eight months ago when he was first charged. He initially denied the accusations, which led to his suspension from the City Council by the governor. Brown later resigned from his position, announcing it on Facebook. This resignation came just a day before he officially stepped down.

Extensive Investigation

The investigation, which began in February, has been quite extensive. It revealed a pattern of bribes, extortion, and kickbacks involving several city officials. Two other former councilmen, Sandino Moses and Jerome Heyward, had already resigned and pleaded guilty earlier this year.

Brown's district council seat has been vacant for months, but he continued to receive his salary of $23,260 annually.

Allegations and Charges

Prosecutors allege that Brown took at least $1,000 from a consultant to help secure a park project deal. This deal was between the Charleston County Parks and Recreation Commission and Sea Fox Boats, but it ultimately failed. Brown was also charged with bribery and wire fraud, but these charges will be dismissed if he follows through with his plea agreement.

Sentencing and Future Elections

Brown now faces up to five years in prison and a $250,000 fine. His attorneys declined to comment after the hearing. A special election is scheduled for January 13 to fill Brown's vacant seat. The candidate filing period is set for November 7 to November 17.

Other Defendants

Most of the defendants in this case have pleaded guilty. However, Rose Emily Lorenzo, the director of a financial business, has pleaded not guilty to additional charges. These include providing false records to federal investigators, along with the original charges of wire fraud, bribery, and money laundering.