More Bad News for Ex-Mayor & Ex-Lawyer Kwame Kilpatrick of Detroit: He’s Now a RICO Defendant

In the latest blow to a once-powerful political figure, former Detroit mayor and former lawyer Kwame Kilpatrick, who is already serving time for probation violation in an unrelated obstruction case, is now facing new prosecution.

He has now been charged, along with four other defendants including his father and two former high-level city officials, in a federal bid-rigging case allegedly involving tens of millions of dollars.

Kilpatrick is accused, among other alleged misconduct, of coercing kickbacks in exchange for awards of government work. The alleged misconduct dates back a decade, even before he was elected mayor in 2001, to his days as a state representative, reports the Detroit News.

The case, which resulted from a six-year investigation, includes charges made under the federal Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations Act.

Additional coverage:

Detroit Free Press: "Metro area's water system thick with corruption, feds say

Detroit News: "Metro Detroit leaders hope charges pave way for reform"

Wall Street Journal (sub. req.): "Ex-Detroit Mayor Faces New Charges "