Chicago alderman pleads guilty in corruption case

[February 02, 2010]  CHICAGO (AP) -- A Chicago alderman has pleaded guilty to bribery and tax fraud charges and resigned his seat.

Isaac Carothers admitted Monday that he accepted $40,000 worth of home improvements from a developer in exchange for pushing a zoning change through the City Council.

Hours later, the 55-year-old Carothers submitted a letter resigning his post on the council, where he was the longtime chairman of the police and fire committee.

Prosecutors have agreed to a 28-month prison sentence as long as Carothers continues to cooperate with their investigation. That's well below federal sentencing guidelines.

Authorities have accused developer Calvin Boender of paying the bribes. Boender has pleaded not guilty to corruption charges.

[Associated Press]

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