Lake County Sheriff Found Guilty For Fraud, Bribery
(photo courtesy of our partners at The Times of Northwest Indiana)
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As a subscriber you can listen to articles at work, in the car, or while you work out. Subscribe NowA jury has found Lake County Sheriff John Buncich guilty on six counts of wire fraud, honest services wire fraud and bribery. Our partners at The Times of Northwest Indiana report Buncich, who was accused of illegally receiving money related to towing contracts, will be immediately removed from office.
The jury in the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Indiana deliberated for a total of five hours Wednesday and Thursday before coming to a verdict, according to the publication. Buncich was indicted in November, along with his chief deputy, Timothy Downs, and CSA Towing Owner William Szarmach.
The indictment stated Buncich collected payments from Szarmach and another person in exchange for awarding towing contracts in Lake County and the city of Gary. The additional federal wire fraud charges were added to the case in April, according to The Times.
Buncich will remain free on bond until his sentencing, which is scheduled for December 6.
You can read more about the trial from our partners at The Times of Northwest Indiana by clicking here.