Philadelphia Councilman Kenyatta Johnson's federal corruption trial begins this week

PHILADELPHIA (WPVI) -- Philadelphia City Councilman Kenyatta Johnson and his wife, political consultant Dawn Chavous, will face a judge this week to begin proceedings in a 22-count federal fraud and racketeering case.

The charges were announced back in 2020 alleging a wide-ranging racketeering conspiracy, and related crimes including bribery, honest services fraud, multiple counts of wire fraud, and tax offenses, officials said.
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Federal prosecutors said the couple was offered $66,000 in bribes disguised as consulting work for Chavous.

SEE ALSO: Philadelphia Councilman Kenyatta Johnson maintains innocence in federal corruption case


Also named in the 22-count indictment were Universal Community Homes Chief Executive Officer and Board President Abdur Rahim Islam and Shahied Dawan, secretary of Universal's Board.
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Prosecutors said the bribes allowed the nonprofit executives to retain control of properties within Johnson's South Philadelphia council district.

Authorities said the crime was a "pay to play" scheme and that the consulting agreement was a "sham."



Both Johnson and Chavous maintain their innocence. They each face up to 40 years in prison if convicted.