Virginia Sheriff Arrested for Trading Deputy Badges for Campaign Cash
- Culpeper County Sheriff Scott Howard Jenkins has been charged with fraud, conspiracy, and bribery by the U.S. Justice Department for allegedly selling deputy sheriff badges in exchange for campaign donations.
- Jenkins accepted at least $72,500 in bribes from three businessmen in exchange for appointing them as auxiliary deputy sheriffs and giving them badges, according to the indictment.
- The indictment alleges Jenkins pressured a judge and employees to help restore gun rights for one of the businessmen.
- The FBI accuses Jenkins of abusing his authority and the public's trust for personal and political gain.
- If convicted, Jenkins and the three businessmen face up to 50 years in prison for the charges which include conspiracy, wire fraud, bribery, and honest services fraud.