US congressman 'took bribes'

2005-11-29 15:03

Los Angeles - A Republican United States congressman resigned on Monday after pleading guilty to taking $2.4m in bribes in return from a military contractor to influence the award of defence deals.

Randy "Duke" Cunningham, 63, who represents President George W Bush's party for the California town of Escondido, pleaded guilty in court in San Diego to conspiracy and tax evasion.

He admitted taking money from a military contractor in return for supporting the firm's drive to secure US Defence Department contracts. He also admitted charges of mail fraud, wire fraud and tax evasion for underreporting his income in 2004.

Cunningham, an eight-term congressman, decorated Vietnam War fighter pilot and a member of the House Defence Appropriations Subcommittee, announced he was resigning immediately from the House of Representatives.

"I'm resigning from the House of Representatives because I've compromised the trust of my constituents," Cunningham told reporters outside court.

"The truth is I broke the law, concealed my conduct and disgraced my office.

"I know that I will forfeit my freedom, my reputation, my worldly possessions, most importantly, the trust of my friends and family," Cunningham said, his voice cracking.

Cunningham faces a maximum of 10 years in prison when he is sentenced on February 27.

US Attorney Carol Lam said Cunningham enriched himself through his position, and violated the trust of the voters who put him there. "It is a crime of really the worst magnitude," Lam said.

- AFP