Former Baltimore Mayor Sentenced To Three Years In Prison For Children’s Book Scam

The former Mayor of Baltimore has been sentenced to three years in prison over a children’s book scam.

Catherine Pugh was sentenced to three years in prison on Thursday after it was found that she had been using her book Healthy Holly to disguise hundreds of thousands of dollars as book sales and illegal donations, NBC News reports. She also used this tactic to evade taxes. In addition to the three-year prison sentence, the 69-year-old will also have to serve three years of supervised release upon her release. Pugh pleaded guilty to federal charges of conspiracy to commit wire fraud, wire fraud, and tax evasion.

As for the money she stole, she will have to pay back $411,948 in restitution and forfeit $669,688. Federal prosecutors originally wanted Pugh to serve five years in prison, but the defense team mentioned Pugh should only serve one year and a day.

U.S. Attorney Robert Hur reportedly reprimanded defense lawyers because he said they wrongly characterized Pugh’s crimes as victim-less. “The victims in a case like this … are all of us, the people and the city of Baltimore, the taxpayers who expect, and they should expect, and they should demand integrity. Even though Judge Chasanow sentenced Pugh to less than the 57 months sought by prosecutors, Hur said three years was within sentencing guidelines and “should serve as a strong message, and I hope a deterrent to anyone in public life who is thinking about using their public office for personal gain. This was not a light sentence in my view,” Hur said.

Pugh stepped down from her position back in May following a two-year investigation launched by federal authorities. Investigators said Pugh set up bulk sales of her “Healthy Holly” as a cover-up, and the money was allegedly re-transferred to her campaign as illegal donations. They also said she used the money to fund renovations in her house.  However, Pugh said it was never her intention to scam taxpayers. In a 13-minute video, which was submitted to the court, Pugh expressed remorse for her actions. “I just want to apologize to the citizens, to young people, to partners, my friends — everyone I’ve offended, everyone I’ve hurt and the city’s image, by pleading guilty and being a part of all of this that had led me here today It’s created such a ringing negativity on our city. And I know better who I am. But also I know here I am right now. And I accept responsibility. I accept total responsibility. I’ve pleaded guilty, and I’m sorry.”