Jackson Officials Indicted in Bribery Scheme

Jackson Mayor Chokwe Antar Lumumba, Hinds County District Attorney Jody Owens, and Ward 6 Councilman Aaron Banks have been indicted on federal charges related to a bribery scheme involving undercover FBI agents posing as developers. The indictment alleges that Owens facilitated over $80,000 in bribes to Lumumba and Banks in exchange for their support of a hotel development project. Prosecutors claim the scheme began in October 2023, with evidence showing Lumumba accepted a $50,000 bribe during a yacht trip in Florida. All three defendants pleaded not guilty and face serious charges including money laundering and racketeering, potentially leading to life sentences if convicted. The indictments have sparked mixed reactions among Jackson residents, with some expressing disappointment and others standing by the mayor. The trial is scheduled to commence on January 6, 2025.