FBI Release Videos From Patrick Cannon Investigation

CHARLOTTE, N.C. — The FBI released video and audio evidence from the investigation against former Charlotte mayor Patrick Cannon Wednesday.

Cannon pleaded guilty to federal public corruption charges.  He is accused of taking more than $50,000 in bribes while serving in office.

A judge sentenced Cannon to 44 months in federal prison, two years of supervised probation and a $10,000 fine in 2014.

U.S. Attorney Tompkins stated, “Patrick Cannon betrayed the public’s trust and embarrassed the city he was elected to serve. Cannon accepted more than $50,000 in bribes, but the social injury to this community is far deeper. While the perception of rampant public corruption can slowly tear a community apart, justice can bind us together and restore our faith in our government. Today, Cannon was held accountable for using his official position for personal gain. His sentence is also a reminder that my office will prosecute those who put personal interests ahead of the people they were elected to serve.”

“Patrick Cannon sold his oath of office, violated the integrity of our government, and betrayed the citizens of Charlotte. Public corruption will not be tolerated; no matter the position or names of those involved. As outlined in the criminal complaint, the FBI is uniquely positioned to dedicate whatever resources necessary to expose even the most deeply entrenched and secretive pay to play schemes,” said John Strong, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI in North Carolina.

The FBI arrested Cannon in March of 2014 after he took five payments from the feds who were posing as real estate investors over a 13-month period.

Cannon and his wife also went on a trip to Las Vegas to meet with the alleged investors, which was paid for by the FBI.

Cannon agreed to cooperate with authorities as part of his guilty plea. No other arrests have been made in the case at this time. Cannon resigned from office the same day he was arrested.

Watch WCCB News At Ten, Wednesday night for more on this story.