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Longtime Alabama Lawmaker Sentenced for Corruption
BIRMINGHAM, Ala. — In a significant legal development, John Rogers, the longest-serving member of the Alabama House of Representatives, was sentenced to 13 months in federal prison on Tuesday. This verdict stems from serious charges including federal conspiracy and obstruction of justice, despite an initial plea agreement that suggested a lesser, home-confinement sentence for the 83-year-old.
Rogers, a Democratic lawmaker from Birmingham who has represented the state since 1982, faced accusations connected to a kickback scheme that misappropriated substantial sums from a fund designated for community projects in Jefferson County. He was charged with conspiracy to commit wire and mail fraud as well as conspiracy to obstruct justice.
George Martin, the federal prosecutor overseeing the case, emphasized the broader message the ruling sends to current and future lawmakers during comments made outside the Birmingham courthouse. “You will get caught and you will go to jail. So just don’t do it,” he stated, highlighting the importance of accountability among public officials.
Between 2018 and 2022, federal prosecutors detailed that Rogers had funneled approximately $400,000 to a youth sports organization managed by Fred Plump, a former representative. Subsequently, around $200,000 was reportedly returned to Rogers and his former aide, Varrie Johnson Kindall. This exchange of funds occurred prior to Plump taking office.
Both Plump and Kindall were sentenced to 12 months in prison last week for their roles in this scheme. In addition to their sentence, Kindall received an extra two years due to unrelated charges linked to the theft of retirement funds.
Initially, in March, Rogers consented to a non-binding plea agreement, wherein prosecutors indicated a preference for a 14-month home confinement sentence in exchange for his resignation and a financial restitution of $197,950. However, the situation shifted when Rogers’ legal team filed documents indicating that he could not recall discussions about the obstruction charge, a move that prosecutors argued contradicted his earlier admission of guilt. This led to a reevaluation by prosecutors who ultimately sought a sentence involving incarceration.
In court, U.S. District Judge Scott Coogler addressed Rogers directly, reflecting on the dualities of his legacy—acknowledging his significant contributions while also condemning his criminal actions. The judge remarked that Rogers’s actions rendered him “more culpable” than others involved, noting that while Plump participated in the scheme, he did not personally benefit from the misappropriation.
Rogers’ defense team argued against the sentence, citing his deteriorating health, which includes prostate cancer, diabetes, and a dialysis regimen. His lawyers characterized the situation as a profound disappointment, recognizing the gravity of the situation. “He let down not only his constituents and the people of Alabama but also the office that he held for more than 40 years,” they stated.
In a poignant moment prior to sentencing, Rogers expressed remorse, stating, “I’m sorry for the whole escapade, I take full responsibility for it. I regret it. It hurts me to no end,” as he showed visible emotion in court.
The question of whether the sentence will be appealed remains uncertain, as Rogers’ attorney has not publicly confirmed any plans for further legal action.
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