Warner Robins, Georgia Councilman Indicted

Michael J. Moore, United States Attorney for the Middle District of Georgia, announced that John F. Williams, an elected member of Warner Robins City Council, has been indicted by a federal grand jury and was today arrested for extortion under color of official right, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 1951(a); false statements to a federal agency, in violation of Title 18 United States Code, Section 1001; and tampering with a witness, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 1512(b)(3).

Count one of the indictment alleges that John F. Williams did knowingly and intentionally attempt to obstruct and affect, in any way and degree, commerce and the movement of articles and commodities in commerce by extortion; that is Williams unlawfully obtained property from another person in the form of $1,720.00 not otherwise due him and as a commission in relation to the sale of a vehicle to the Warner Robins Police Department. The maximum penalty for count one is 20 years’ imprisonment; a $250,000.00 fine; three years’ supervised release; and a $100 mandatory assessment fee.

Count two of the indictment alleges that John F. Williams did knowingly and willfully make a materially false statement to the Federal Bureau of Investigation concerning the sale of the vehicle to the Warner Robins Police Department, stating that he received no payment of money in relation to the sale of the vehicle, when in truth and fact Williams received a payment of $1,720.00 in relation to the sale. The maximum penalty for count two is five years’ imprisonment; a $250,000.00 fine; three years’ supervised release; and a $100 mandatory assessment fee.

Count three of the indictment alleges that John F. Williams attempted to corruptly persuade another person with intent to hinder, delay, and prevent the communication to a law enforcement officer regarding the sale of the vehicle. The maximum penalty for count three is 20 years’ imprisonment; a $250,000.00 fine; three years’ supervised release; and a $100 mandatory assessment fee.

“My office is committed to fighting criminal activity wherever it is found, whether that be on the city streets or in the city hall,” said U.S. Attorney Michael Moore.

Criminal indictments are only charges and not evidence of guilt. A defendant is presumed to be innocent until and unless proven guilty.

Any questions concerning this matter should be addressed to Sue McKinney, Public Affairs Specialist, United States Attorney’s Office, at 478-621-2602.