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Posted: Saturday, 11 August 2007 6:48PM
Sources: Oliver Thomas facing federal charges
WWL.com Reporting
</TD></TR><TR align=left><TD class=Box_9861731_Td width="100%">Sources close to Oliver Thomas tell WWL First News that the New Orleans City Councilman confirms he is facing federal corruption charges.
Speaking on the condition of anonymity, one source tells WWL radio that Thomas confirmed for him Saturday that corruption charges are pending against him.
The case is reportedly sealed by a federal judge, so details of the charges and the allegations are not being made public at this time. Several sources, however, say it is tied to the probe of former Marc Morial associate Stan "Pampy" Barre.
Thomas has not returned calls from WWL First News.
U.S. Attorney Jim Letten will only say that he hopes to make a statement Monday.
That's when Thomas is expected to appear before a federal judge.
City Council President Arnie Fielkow has released the following statement:
"I have become aware of the reports which have just recently come to light regarding Councilman-at-Large Oliver Thomas. It would be inappropriate for me to comment on or speculate beyond what has been reported at this time. However, as Council President, I am closely monitoring the current situation, and will have further comment as developments warrant.
My focus and also the focus of the City Council remains on the business of the city, the integrity of the City Council as a body and the continuing challenges of our city's recovery. We will continue to work each and every day towards the rebuilding of this great community. As a city we must stand united in this singular mission and I would ask my fellow citizens to not be distracted but remain resolute in our shared mission to build a better city for all."
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For those outside of New Orleans, Oliver Thomas was probably the strongest candidate for the mayor of New Orleans
Posted: Saturday, 11 August 2007 6:48PM
Sources: Oliver Thomas facing federal charges
WWL.com Reporting
</TD></TR><TR align=left><TD class=Box_9861731_Td width="100%">Sources close to Oliver Thomas tell WWL First News that the New Orleans City Councilman confirms he is facing federal corruption charges.
Speaking on the condition of anonymity, one source tells WWL radio that Thomas confirmed for him Saturday that corruption charges are pending against him.
The case is reportedly sealed by a federal judge, so details of the charges and the allegations are not being made public at this time. Several sources, however, say it is tied to the probe of former Marc Morial associate Stan "Pampy" Barre.
Thomas has not returned calls from WWL First News.
U.S. Attorney Jim Letten will only say that he hopes to make a statement Monday.
That's when Thomas is expected to appear before a federal judge.
City Council President Arnie Fielkow has released the following statement:
"I have become aware of the reports which have just recently come to light regarding Councilman-at-Large Oliver Thomas. It would be inappropriate for me to comment on or speculate beyond what has been reported at this time. However, as Council President, I am closely monitoring the current situation, and will have further comment as developments warrant.
My focus and also the focus of the City Council remains on the business of the city, the integrity of the City Council as a body and the continuing challenges of our city's recovery. We will continue to work each and every day towards the rebuilding of this great community. As a city we must stand united in this singular mission and I would ask my fellow citizens to not be distracted but remain resolute in our shared mission to build a better city for all."
</TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE>
For those outside of New Orleans, Oliver Thomas was probably the strongest candidate for the mayor of New Orleans
