Gary Becker

Gary Becker, the mayor of Racine, Wisconsin, was arrested on January 13, 2009, on charges of child enticement, possession of child pornography, exposing a child to harmful materials, attempted second-degree sexual assault of a child, use of a computer to facilitate a child sex crime, and misconduct in public office.

Becker was arrested at a shopping mall, where he had allegedly scheduled a meeting with who he believed to be a 14-year-old girl he met on the Internet. Instead, he was greeted by police officers and taken into custody. He was later released on $165,000 bond.The Journal Times: Mayor Becker Arrested (January 16, 2009) The Journal Times: Becker appears in court (January 15, 2009)

Just days after Becker was arrested, his biography and photo were removed from the Racine city website. On January 17, the city administrator, city attorney and deputy mayor met to discuss removing Becker from office if he does not resign his position. An executive committee meeting was scheduled for January 20, 2009, at which time the council would discuss "procedures and related items concerning the possible removal from office of Mayor Gary Becker."The Journal Times: City to discuss Becker's ouster from mayor seat (January 17, 2008)