Image Credit: capitol.tn.gov
The Tennessee Conservative [By Adelia Kirchner] –
A $28,000 judgement has been handed down against former Republican state lawmaker Robin Smith, a key witness in the trial against former Tennessee Speaker of the House Glen Casada and his former chief of staff Cade Cothren.
The dollar amount is considered to be equal to the amount of Smith’s proceeds from the bribery and kickback scheme, and Smith has agreed to the $28,263.26 number.
The judgement against Smith represents “property, real or personal, which constitutes or is derived from proceeds traceable to the offense.”
Smith is required to provide her tax returns going back to the year 2020, until her payment of the judgement is complete.
During the payment period, the IRS will release Smith’s tax returns to the Asset Forfeiture Unit of the United States Attorney’s Office.
Back in 2022, around 20 federal charges were brought regarding an alleged fraud scheme associated with a mailer company called Phoenix Solutions.
Early on in the proceedings, Smith plead guilty to charges of “honest services wire fraud.” Smith still faces up to 20 years in prison on these charges.
Her attorney has stated that Smith will be providing additional aid to the federal government in the case against Casada and Cothren.
Earlier this year, Casada and Cothren were found guilty by a jury on the bribery and kickback charges.
Casada and Cothren have a sentencing scheduled for September 12th of this year. However, the sentencing may be delayed following the filing of motions of acquittal and for a new trial.
Smith’s sentencing is scheduled for October 24th of this year at 9AM CST.
About the Author: Adelia Kirchner is a Tennessee resident and reporter for the Tennessee Conservative. Currently the host of Subtle Rampage Podcast, she has also worked for the South Dakota State Legislature and interned for Senator Bill Hagerty’s Office in Nashville, Tennessee. You can reach Adelia at adelia@tennesseeconservativenews.com.
