By Alabama Public Radio
Tuscaloosa, AL – State Representative Bryant Melton of Tuscaloosa has agreed to plead guilty to federal charges. Prosecutors say he paid off his personal debts by funneling 68-thousand dollars in state money through the Alabama Fire College Foundation. U-S Attorney Alice Martin says Melton will plead guilty to federal theft and money-laundering charges. He'll also plead guilty to a felony ethics charge in state court. Federal prosecutors also say Melton is cooperating with authorities and more charges are possible against others in the case. He faces up to 20 years in prison. So far, there's no date for the plea hearing. Melton is a Democrat who will automatically lose his legislative seat.