Republican Congressman Randy Duke Cunningham resigned today after pleading guilty in a San Diego federal court to conspiracy and tax evasion.
Cunningham admitted he took more than $2.4 million in bribes and in return helped secure military contracts. KPBS Reporter Amita Sharma has more.
A somber and thinner Cunningham entered his guilty plea in a low voice. He acknowledged that he conspired to commit honest services fraud, tax evasion and that he received bribes. The bribes included $1 million in checks and another $1.5 million in cash, jewelry rugs, furniture and vacations. Cunningham even took a Rolls-Royce and a graduation party for his daughter as bribes. U.S. Attorney Carol Lam said Cunningham's crime was one of unprecedented magnitude and extraordinary audacity.
Lam: "It is abundantly clear that Congressman Cunningham let greed take priority his duty to serve the best interests of his constituents and his country."
Cunningham faces a maximum of 10 years in prison. He is due to be sentenced in February. Amita Sharma, KPBS News.
