Submitted by Darren Smith, Weekend Contributor
We previously discussed the case of California State Senator Leland Yee accused of several corruption and weapons charges, including an accusation of conspiracy to import weaponry from terrorists in the Far East. The case stems from Leland’s alleged association with a San Francisco based criminal organization. Previous articles may be read regarding the original accusations HERE, and his suspension from the California Senate HERE.
A new indictment was unsealed against Leland alleging Racketeering and Conspiracy To Obtain Property Under The Color Of Official Right.
Leland had previously pleaded not guilty to the original charges in the first indictment and will face on Wednesday arraignment on new charges. The new charges included: Conspiracy to Conduct the Affairs of an Enterprise Through a Pattern of Racketeering Activity, 18 USC 1962(d); Conspiracy to Obtain Property Under Control of Official Right, 18 USC 1951(a); Honest Services Conspiracy, 18 USC 1349; Scheme to Defraud Citizens of Honest Services, Wire Fraud, 18 USC 1343, 1346,2; and Conspiracy to Traffic in Firearms without a License; Conspiracy to Illegally Import Firearms 18 USC 371, 922(a)(1), 922(1). The most severe carry a maximum penalty of twenty years in prison and a $250,000.00 fine.
The Indictment of Leland and numerous others particularly describes the crimes and conspiracy alleged and may be read here. (Note: there is a yellow highlight about half-way through the document showing where to begin with Leland.
The new accusations allege that San Francisco Democrat offered to help pass legislation making it more difficult for professional football players to obtain workers compensation in California, in exchange for campaign contributions from an unidentified NFL team owner. Leland was informed that an undercover agent investigating him knew the owner of this NFL team who would benefit from passage of a bill that would limit the ability of professional athletes from out-of-state teams to file for workers’ compensation over injuries sustained in California.
Additionally, the new indictment accuses Leland of taking bribes in exchange for votes in favor of several other bills, including one on medical marijuana and another to extend the life of the California State Athletic Commission.
The indictment also accuses Leland of “extorting individuals related to the California State Athletic Commission (CSAC) and the Mixed Martial Arts industry regarding retaining the existence of CSAC and its ability to regulate certain sports” in California.
By Darren Smith
Sources:
Huffington Post
KING 5 News
LA Times / Indictment True Bill
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