Former U.S. Attorney Weighs In Harper Indictment
PITTSBURGH (KDKA) -- Posh restaurants like The Capital Grille are just some of the places where investigators say former Pittsburgh Police Chief Nate Harper spent more than $30,000 of taxpayer money.
In just one night, authorities say Harper spent more than $300 there.
There were dozens of restaurant tabs, and investigators say the former chief spent another $700 at Houston-Starr for an oven upgrade.
There was also $235 at Terry Poe Automotive where investigators say Harper purchased a satellite radio.
There's no denials from his attorney.
"I think we're prepared to plead to that indictment without modification, because as indicated, the evidence is unambiguous and overwhelming," said Robert Del Greco, Harper's attorney.
Harper's attorneys also say he is cooperating with the FBI.
Former U.S. Attorney J. Alan Johnson has prosecuted a bunch of public corruption cases.
He says the strategy may make sense because cooperating could bring a lighter sentence and could mean others will be indicted.
"He's not over there talking about himself, let's face it," said Johnson. "He's talking about other people and who knows who they are."
Harper's lawyers say the veteran cop is embarrassed, sad and humbled by the indictments.
The former chief is also charged with failing to file federal income taxes for four years.
RELATED LINKS:
Harper Indicted On Public Corruption, Failure To Pay Taxes (3/22/13)
More Reports on the Pittsburgh Police Bureau Scandal
