State Rep. La Shawn K. Ford (D-8th) was indicted by a federal grand jury Thursday afternoon on charges of bank fraud.
In an interview with our partners at the Austin Weekly News, Ford strongly denied the charges of fraud against the now-defunct ShoreBank in relation to his buying and rehabbing homes on the West Side.
“There was no property that was left undone,” Ford, who founded his real estate company, Ford Desired Real Estate, in Austin in 2001, told Austin Weekly News Editor Terry Dean.
Read “State Rep. Ford vehement in defense agains federal charges” for the entire story.
Ford sent out an email Thursday afternoon announcing he’s planning to meet with constituents Friday at his office, 5104 W. Chicago Ave.
Also read “Indicted state Rep. Ford denies charges: “No bank fraud in my blood,” by the Chicago Sun-Times.
I don’t know the facts of this case, but I will say this: Representative La Shawn K Ford, I want you to know that I appreciate the work you do on behalf of your constituents, and those of us who live beyond your borders. You have been a champion of democracy in education, offering to push legislation that will create a task force to study the most efficient governance structure and process for CPS. You offered to bring David Vitale, the Chairman of the Board of CPS, and Penny Pritzker, a member of the Chicago Board of Education to the community to hear our concerns and open the lines of communications between CPS and a community that has long been ignored. You voted “No” on the bill to extend time for CPS to disclose the list of schools to be closed to encourage them to develop a much more
comprehensive process and to minimize disruption to our community. You have sponsored and passed legislation that has increased opportunities for African American and women contractors and employees. You have been a champion for those who need a second chance, in spite of a sometimes hostile environment that would choose to capitalize upon the plight of the incarcerated. You have sponsored countless events to foster relationships between the government sector (fed, state and local), small businesses and the financial sector. You have educated the masses on homeownership, affordable housing and foreclosure. You have been a teacher, father, a neighbor and friend to many. I WANT TO SAY THANK YOU FOR ALL YOU DO, AND ALL YOU WILL DO!
Representative Ford has filed a resolution in the House of Representatives asking his colleagues to allow him to remain in the House of Representatives and to continue his regular duties as the investigation into his personal finances proceeds. This investigation has nothing to do with his conduct as a state representative. Here is a link to the press release.http://www.scribd.com/doc/115033876/FORDpr-2012-11-30-House-Resolution-Re-Ford I say, let the law follow its course. In the meantime,he should be allowed to continue to represent his constituents. He is one of the few legislators who has given true voice to issues confronting marginalized people and communities. PLEASE, CALL YOUR STATE REP NOW to urge him/her to vote YES on this resolution. Here is a link to a contact list for all state reps. http://ilga.gov/reports/rptMemberList.asp?gaid=11&ChamberId=H