By Associated Press
Birmingham, AL – A former Birmingham-area politician is set to go on trial Monday for allegedly misusing thousands of dollars intended for a charity providing computers to needy children.
John Katopodis, a former Birmingham city councilman and Jefferson County Commissioner, is charged with 97 counts of mail and wire fraud for allegedly using $250,000 in taxpayer money to fund casino trips, airplane tickets and gifts. The trial before U.S. District Judge Karon Bowdre in Birmingham begins Monday and is expected to last two weeks.
Jim Parkman, a lawyer for Katopodis, said the judge has asked attorneys not to discuss details of the case.
The government contends Katopodis used money meant for a children's computer charity for personal gain. Prosecutors are seeking to recover $250,000.