A Tennessee lawmaker is claimed and even divorce fees, federal authorities said Wednesday. State Sen. Katrina Robinson, a first-term Democrat who represents a district in Shelby County, embezzled the money from federal grants that were donated to a healthcare education company she directs, according to the U.S.
Attorney’s Office in Memphis. Instead of using the funds for legitimate programs, Robinson bought herself a Louis Vuitton handbag, hair and beauty products, clothing, home electronics, and numerous other items over the years.
She even spent the money on a trip to Jamaica, a $5,000 wrought iron door for her home, a 2016 Jeep Renegade for her daughter, expenses related to her own wedding and honeymoon, and legal fees associated with her divorce. Msn reports on 31st July 2020, Robinson is also charged f using the funds to invest in her children’s snow cone business and pay for a campaign event. The 39-year-old lawmaker was elected in 2018 to represent Tennessee’s 33rd district in the state senate.
The company where she serves as director, The Healthcare Institute, provides educational and training programs for jobs in the healthcare field.
Foxnews told on 31st July 2020, The organization received more than $2.2 million in grants between 2015 and 2019 from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, federal authorities said. In a news conference Wednesday, Robinson appeared to suggest the charges against her may be motivated.
“It is believed that if I were not in the position that I’m in, if I did not champion the voices, the views and the faces that I represent that I would not be in this moment I’m in today,” she said.
Defense attorney Janika White said her client would prove her innocence when all the evidence comes out. “Senator Robinson has a story to tell,” White told reporters. “She’s eager to tell that story and we believe once all the facts come out and her story is told she will be vindicated.” Dem lawmaker who once led ethics committee spent campaign funds on gambling, casino trips, golf club, other personal expenses: feds
Robinson was charged with theft, embezzlement and wire fraud.
If convicted, she could face up to 20 years in federal penal institution and a $250,000 fine. FBI Special Agent Jermicha Fomby, of the Memphis Field Office, said the agency will continue to investigate. “Anyone who seeks to take advantage of government programs will be vigorously investigated by the FBI, regardless of who they are or any position they hold,” Fomby said in a statement.
This article was originally published on the msn.com on 31st July 2020, foxnews.com on 31st July 2020