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Ex-Trenton Worker Admits Role In Bribery Scheme

TRENTON, N.J. (AP) — A former Trenton municipal worker has admitted taking part in a bribery scheme that federal prosecutors say involved city Mayor Tony Mack.

Charles Hall III pleaded guilty Wednesday to a complaint charging him with conspiracy to obstruct commerce by extortion under color of official right. The 49-year-old Trenton resident also pleaded guilty to conspiracy to distribute oxycodone in a separate conspiracy with another person allegedly involved in the bribery scheme.

Hall faces up to 40 years in prison when he's sentenced June 5. He held various city jobs before his employment ended in November 2011.

Mack was indicted on corruption charges in December, but has maintained his innocence and has vowed to remain in office. Mack's brother and a close associate have also been indicted in the case.

Prosecutors say Mack was involved in a scheme to accept $119,000 in bribes in exchange for using his influence over the development of a parking garage on city-owned land. If convicted on all six criminal counts he faces, he could be sentenced to 110 years in prison.

(© Copyright 2013 The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.)

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