Electronic Bingo Supporters Bribe State Senators

A casino developer who pleaded guilty to attempting to bribe senators is set for another day of testimony in Alabama's latest gambling corruption trial. Two of the lawmakers accused of taking bribes are Larry Means and Jim Preuitt. They voted in favor of a pro-gambling bill in 2010. This bill would have allowed for a statewide referendum giving voters the opportunity to legalize electronic bingo games. Efforts were brought to a halt in the House after an FBI investigation became public knowledge.

Country Crossing developer, Ronnie Gilley, testified that he offered $100,000 to legislators but the investigation surrounding them had prevented him from making good on his offer.

Gilley is the second to plead guilty in the case to testify.

Prosecutors played a wiretap of a conversation from March 31, 2010, the following day after the bill passed the state Senate, between Gilley and state Sen. Harri Anne Smith. Smith passed the phone to Preuitt, who was in her office.

Prosecutors had begun to question Gilley about his attempted bribe to Smith when U.S. District Judge, Myron Thompson, decided to adjourn for lunch.

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