Patrick Cannon, the Democratic mayor of Charlotte, North Carolina, has been arrested on federal theft and bribery charges after an FBI undercover operation. US attorney Anne Tompkins announced that Cannon solicited and accepted more than $48,000 in bribes from agents posing as real estate developers.
The bribes included cash, airline tickets, a hotel room, and the use of a luxury apartment. In exchange, Cannon promised access to city officials responsible for planning, zoning, and permitting. On one occasion, he allegedly accepted $20,000 in cash in the mayor's office.
The investigation began in August 2010, while Cannon still held an at-large seat on the city council. Over five separate meetings between January 2013 and February 2014, he accepted payments. He also took $12,500 from an undercover agent to help develop a feminine hygiene product called 'Hers', offering to expedite permits for a nightclub in return.
If convicted on all charges, Cannon faces up to 20 years in prison and more than $1 million in fines. He was elected mayor in November 2013, replacing Anthony Foxx who became US Transportation Secretary. Cannon, a radio host and parking company owner, has not yet commented on the allegations.
