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Bell's Corrupt Robert Rizzo Admits To Being Guilty As Sin
Robert Rizzo, the former city manager of Bell who literally became the poster child for civic corruption, decided not to put up a fight against the District Attorney.Rizzo pleaded no contest to 69 counts related to defrauding the city of Bell of millions of dollars while raking in $800,000 as a city manager for a very small town no one had paid much attention to. He resigned in July 2010 just as the name Bell became synonymous with corruption.
District Attorney Jackie Lacey sent out a statement saying that his plea was a "surprise:" "Although we were prepared to go to trial and felt confident we could convict Mr. Rizzo of all charges, we are pleased he chose to admit his guilt and accept full responsibility for the irreparable harm he caused the people of Bell."
For that, Rizzo will be receive the longest sentence since the Public Integrity Division was created in 2000. Judge Kathleen Kennedy said Rizzo will be sentenced 10-12 years in state prison when he returns for sentencing on March 12.
Related:
Ousted Bell City Manager Rizzo's Swanky Executive Beach Pad On the Market. Any Takers?
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