Activist Robert Davis Pleads To Federal Charges In Highland Park Schools Theft Case
HIGHLAND PARK (WWJ) - Labor activists and former Highland Park Schools board member Robert Davis has pleaded to two federal charges.
Davis was accused of embezzling funds from the struggling school district.
A 16-count federal grand jury indictment charged that, between 2004 and 2010, Davis obtained more than $125,000 from the school through two schemes in which he used so-called "cover companies" to file false invoices with the district for payment.
As part of a deal with prosecutors he pleaded guilty to conversion — a 10 year felony— as well as one count of filing a false tax return.
According to the agreement, Davis could spend up to 24 months in a federal prison.
Davis, who is known for repeatedly suing Gov. Rick Snyder and Detroit officials to stop the use of emergency managers, has in the past proclaimed his innocence — calling the case politically motivated.
In a one-on-one interview, WWJ's Charlie Langton asked Davis why he took the deal.
"I think it's necessary to put this matter behind me; and I'm looking forward to a fresh start and moving forward, continuing to work hard on behalf of the hard working people of the state of Michigan," Davis said.
The case was investigated by an FBI-led Public Corruption Task Force and the IRS.
Sentencing is set for Dec. 9.