Sharpe James Trial

Former Mayor of Newark, New Jersey, Sharpe James, was convicted of five counts of fraud on April 16, 2008. His mistress Tamika Riley was also convicted. He is facing seven to eight years in prison.

Fast Facts

1. James served as mayor of Newark for 21 years
2. Sharpe James 72 years old when trial began
3. 1999: Became a state senator
4. April 2007: Announced retirement from senate seat at the end of his term
5. The investigation into sale of city lands and Mr. James's use of city credit cards soon after he left office
6. Indicted on July 12, 2007
7. Sentencing: July 29, 2008

Charges

A federal grand jury found Sharpe guilty of abusing an urban development program by selling nine city owned properties to his mistress, Tamika Riley, who then quickly sold the homes for a huge profit. Sharpe sold Riley a home worth $46,000, she sold it and earned a profit over $600,000. James was indicted on 25 counts that included mail fraud, wire fraud, tax evasion and conspiracy. He plead not guilty and denied any wrongdoing. His trial for fraud began on March 4, 2008. He was found guilty on April 16, 2008. He is scheduled to be sentenced on July 29, 2008. James' attorney said he intends to appeal the verdict.

Other Legal Trouble

James is still awaiting trial for federal corruption charges stemming from misusing $58,000 on municipal credit cards. James allegedly spent thousands of tax-payer dollars on private trips with various female companions to Martha's Vineyard, Rio de Janeiro and Puerto Rico.

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