Prosecutors: Crimes mar ex-legislator Arredondo's service - FOX5 Vegas - KVVU

Federal prosecutors say former state Rep. Ben Arredondo's record of public service was marred by his crimes and can't be a basis for leniency.

Arredondo faces a Jan. 23 sentencing. He pleaded guilty to fraud charges that he solicited and accepted a bribe while he was a Tempe city councilman and misled donors about a scholarship fund to benefit his relatives.

A plea agreement recommends between 27 months and 51 months in prison.

Prosecutors have objected to a draft presentence report's assertion that Arredondo's history of public service as a teacher, coach and public official could help justify a lower sentence.

The prosecutors say Arredondo doesn't deserve any such leniency. They say he sought and accepted bribes as part of a pattern of conduct that abused the public trust.

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