Embattled US lobbyist Jack Abramoff has pleaded guilty to conspiracy to commit fraud and several other charges in a corruption investigation that could involve several top Republican lawmakers, including former House Majority Leader Tom DeLay.
Abramoff has pleaded guilty to conspiracy to commit fraud
The long-expected plea will give prosecutors extra ammunition as they seek to link the activities of DeLay of Texas, Republican Rep. Bob Ney of Ohio, and other top legislators to favours paid for by Abramoff 's lobbying clients.
According to the charges, Abramoff and former DeLay aide Michael Scanlon overcharged several Indian tribes by millions of dollars and used that money to shower golf trips, sports tickets, lavish dinners and other favours.
The charges were also expected to include breaking lobbying laws by hiring congressional staff to lobby their former bosses within a year of their employment on Capitol Hill.