US News
US congressman indicted in land deal scheme
Feb 23, 2008, 14:27 GMT
Washington - A US congressman was indicted on 35 counts related to a land deal in the south-western state of Arizona, the US Justice Department said Friday.
Richard Renzi, 49, a Republican from Arizona, faces counts of wire fraud, extortion and money laundering for 'forcing a land sale that would financially benefit himself and a business associate,' US Attorney Diane Humetewa said in a statement.
The government also alleges Renzi and another associate violated insurances laws by embezzling insurance premiums to pay for his Congressional campaign in 2001 and 2002.
The wire fraud and extortion charges and the money laundering charges all carry maximum penalties of 20 years in prison and fines.
