A Michigan state representative accused of bribery blamed the situation on a misunderstanding.
Larry Inman (R) on Tuesday was indicted on charges of extortion, bribery and lying to an FBI agent, MLive reported Thursday. Inman told the outlet that situation was really “just talking from one friend to another.”
“I was never a texter,” he said. “If I had something to say, I would either call them — and that’s what I should have done in the long run, because texts can be misinterpreted.” {mosads}
Prosecutors accused the state lawmaker of soliciting a bribe from the Michigan Regional Council of Carpenters and Millwrights and a union lobbyist. Inman allegedly said that he and other legislators could be convinced to protect a wage law if they received $30,000 worth of campaign donations.
“Carpenters have been good to me, where are the rest of the trades on checks? We only have 12, people to block it,” he wrote, the news outlet reported, citing court documents. “I have heard most got $5,000, not $30,000. Its not worth losing assignments and staff for $5,000, in the end. They will give you the check back … Get with the all the trades by Monday, I would suggest doubling what you given on Tuesday, ASAP.”
He allegedly followed the message with “we never had this discussion.”
Inman told MLive, however, that he would never solicit or accept a bribe.
“That explanation will come out,” Inman said. “That’s all I’ve got to say on the explanation … They do not involve, in any way, a move or any intent to take money for a vote.”