Former Correctional Counselor Sentenced to Two Years for Accepting Bribes from Inmate
In a shocking turn of events, a former correctional counselor at a federal prison in Massachusetts has been sentenced to two years in prison for accepting bribes from a wealthy inmate. The inmate, identified as Galleon Group hedge fund founder Raj Rajaratnam, allegedly paid over $90,000 to the counselor in exchange for favorable treatment.
U.S. District Judge William Young in Boston did not mince words when he called the corruption “intolerable” and sentenced the counselor, William Tidwell, to two years behind bars. Tidwell was also ordered to forfeit the $90,000 and pay a $10,000 fine.
During the sentencing, Tidwell apologized for his actions, acknowledging his mistake and taking responsibility for his misconduct. However, Judge Young emphasized the seriousness of the offense, stating that it strikes at the core of the justice system.
Prosecutors revealed that Tidwell received financial benefits from the inmate and his friend, including payments to help pay off loans and manage properties. Tidwell even received a $50,000 loan from the inmate’s friend to buy a house after the inmate’s release from prison, lying on a bank loan application about the source of the funds.
While no charges have been filed against Rajaratnam in relation to Tidwell’s case, the scandal has shed light on the corrupt practices that can occur within the prison system. This case serves as a stark reminder of the importance of upholding integrity and ethics, especially in positions of authority and trust.