MEMPHIS, TN (abc24.com) - The Shelby County District Attorney's office has charged former Millington mayor Richard Hodges with three counts of bribery of a public servant, replacing the two original bribery counts from October 2011.
Local business owner Marlin Roberts was also indicted by a grand jury on two counts bribery, two counts possession of a controlled substance with intent to sell or deliver, and one count simple possession of a controlled substance. Roberts, who owns Transmission Doctors, acted as a TBI informant in their investigation into reported misconduct among elected officials in Millington. The business also served as the backdrop for an alleged gambling ring involving city money.
Hodges is accused of soliciting money in exchange for political favors. Investigators raided Millington government offices on July 27, 2011. Court documents allege Hodges gambled in City Hall and offered Roberts a Millington police badge in return for money.
The former mayor maintains his innocence. "I know in my heart what was said, I know in my heart I was innocent, and I know in my heart it is going to work out," Hodges told abc24.com.
If convicted on all counts, Hodges faces a sentence of 24 to 90 years in prison. Roberts faces 20 to 85 years behind bars if found guilty on all counts.
