Federal prosecutors have recommended a six-year prison sentence for former City Councilman Mark Ridley-Thomas. Ridley-Thomas was convicted of bribery, fraud, and conspiracy charges for using his position to steer county contracts towards the USC School of Social Work in exchange for a secret $100,000 contribution to his son’s organization. The prosecutors characterized this as a “shakedown” and emphasized the damage it inflicts on the integrity of the democratic system.
Ridley-Thomas’ defense attorneys are requesting a probationary sentence with home confinement instead of prison time.
The 68-year-old Ridley-Thomas was found guilty on multiple charges, including conspiracy, bribery, and fraud. Prosecutors are asking for a sentence of six years imprisonment, three years supervised release, and a $30,000 fine.
In contrast, Marilyn Flynn, Ridley-Thomas’ co-defendant and the former dean of USC’s social work school, received a three-year probation sentence with 18 months of home confinement and a $150,000 fine for pleading guilty to bribing the politician. Ridley-Thomas’ attorneys argue that his sentence should be similar to Flynn’s.
The defense document states that “a just sentence must consider whether imposing a significantly different sentence from that imposed on Dean Flynn lends to the appearance of vindictiveness for proceeding to trial.”
According to the prosecution, Ridley-Thomas made his demands known to Flynn, stating that she should help him and his son in exchange for Los Angeles County business. The prosecutors assert that Flynn understood the message and worked tirelessly to please Ridley-Thomas and his son in order to secure lucrative county contracts.
Despite his vehement denial of any wrongdoing, Ridley-Thomas did not testify in his own defense. The federal prosecutors relied on a series of emails and letters to support their case, claiming that Ridley-Thomas used his position for personal gain and directed benefits towards his son.
Prosecutors argue that Ridley-Thomas should receive a prison sentence, while the defense maintains that probation and home confinement are sufficient punishments, considering the impact on Ridley-Thomas’ reputation and future financial security. Ridley-Thomas’ attorneys also note that he has already been removed from his City Council position and may lose his pension.
Ridley-Thomas has a long history in public service, serving on the Los Angeles City Council, the Assembly, the state Senate, and the county Board of Supervisors. Following his indictment in October 2021, he was suspended from the City Council, and a new councilwoman was appointed. Jurors acquitted Ridley-Thomas of some fraud charges, and his attorneys are currently appealing the conviction.
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