.png)
Former Los Angeles City Councilmember José Luis Huizar has been sentenced to 156 months in federal prison for orchestrating a corruption scheme during his tenure in City Hall and for tax evasion. The sentencing was handed down by United States District Judge John F. Walter, who also ordered Huizar to pay hefty restitution to the City of Los Angeles and the IRS. Huizar, a resident of Boyle Heights, is required to surrender to federal authorities by April 30.
At the sentencing, Judge Walter underscored the damaging impact of public corruption on democratic institutions, stating that such behavior undermines public trust and participation in government. Huizar's guilty plea in January 2023 to conspiracy to violate the Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations (RICO) Act and tax evasion charges marked the culmination of a lengthy investigation into his illicit activities.
United States Attorney Martin Estrada emphasized the principle of accountability, affirming that even high-ranking public officials like Huizar will face consequences for engaging in criminal conduct. Huizar, entrusted with representing the interests of Los Angeles residents, instead exploited his position for personal gain, operating a long-standing bribery scheme that tarnished the integrity of local government.
The case exposed Huizar's role as the mastermind behind the CD-14 Enterprise, a criminal conspiracy aimed at enriching himself and his associates through corrupt dealings with real estate developers. Leveraging his authority as a councilmember and chair of the Planning and Land Use Management (PLUM) Committee, Huizar solicited nearly $2 million in bribes in exchange for favorable treatment on development projects.
Huizar's illicit gains included cash bribes, luxury gifts, political contributions, and other perks, all obtained at the expense of taxpayers. His efforts to conceal his criminal activities, including laundering money through family members and foreign entities, underscored the extent of his corruption.
In addition to his prison sentence, Huizar admitted to obstructing justice by tampering with witnesses and lying to federal authorities. The sentencing memorandum highlighted Huizar's betrayal of public trust and the erosion of confidence in local government resulting from his actions.
The investigation into Huizar's corruption involved extensive collaboration between law enforcement agencies and the cooperation of concerned citizens. FBI Assistant Director Donald Alway commended the collective effort to hold corrupt officials accountable and urged continued vigilance against malfeasance.
Several individuals implicated in Huizar's schemes, including real estate developers and political fundraisers, have also faced criminal charges and convictions. The case underscores the FBI's commitment to rooting out public corruption and upholding the rule of law.
As Huizar begins his prison term, the case serves as a stark reminder that no one is above the law, and those who abuse their positions for personal gain will face severe consequences. The successful prosecution of Huizar sends a clear message that corruption will not be tolerated, and perpetrators will be held accountable for their actions.
Because of advancements in our technology, we are able to communicate with the IRS electronically, its as if we are in the same office! Faster service and more cost effective!
If you are not happy with our tax services within the initial 21 days, we will give you a 100% refund of services rendered, no questions asked!
You find it, we will match it! Tax Alliance will match and beat (by 10%) any competitive offer. Contact our office today and receive a free no obligation tax consultation.
Because of advancements in our technology, we are able to communicate with the IRS electronically, its as if we are in the same office! Faster service and more cost effective!
If you are not happy with our tax services within the initial 21 days, we will give you a 100% refund of services rendered, no questions asked! We help our clients nationwide!
You find it, we will match it! Tax Alliance will match and beat (by 10%) any competitive offer. Contact our office today and receive a free no obligation tax consultation.
.jpg){kind=small}
