Fact Check: "The indictment alleged Ivey and Donagher collaborated in an unsuccessful attempt to bribe three Florida clerks of court."
What We Know
The claim revolves around the indictment of Donald Donagher Jr., the owner of Penn Credit Corporation, who was charged with conspiracy to commit federal program bribery and multiple counts of federal program bribery. According to the indictment, Donagher allegedly attempted to influence court clerks in Florida and Illinois through various means, including financial contributions to charities favored by these clerks and direct offers of campaign contributions (Justice.gov, Florida Today).
The indictment specifically mentions that Donagher sought to bribe clerks in Brevard County, Florida, among other locations, and that he had interactions with Sheriff Wayne Ivey regarding these efforts. Ivey was reportedly involved in discussions about the charitable donations made by Donagher, which were intended to curry favor with the clerks (Florida Today, Volusia Exposed).
Analysis
The evidence presented in the indictment indicates a clear attempt by Donagher to influence court clerks through financial means. The indictment outlines specific instances where Donagher made donations to charities associated with the clerks and offered campaign contributions, which he hoped would lead to favorable treatment in securing debt collection contracts (Justice.gov, Florida Today).
Sheriff Ivey's involvement, as noted in the indictment, raises questions about the nature of his relationship with Donagher. While Ivey did not face charges, the indictment suggests that he was aware of Donagher's attempts to influence the clerks and even facilitated communication between Donagher and the clerks (Florida Today).
The sources used in this analysis are credible, as they include official statements from the U.S. Attorney's Office and reputable news outlets that reported on the indictment and its implications. The indictment itself serves as a primary document detailing the allegations against Donagher.
Conclusion
The claim that "the indictment alleged Ivey and Donagher collaborated in an unsuccessful attempt to bribe three Florida clerks of court" is True. The indictment clearly outlines Donagher's efforts to bribe court clerks in Florida, including interactions with Sheriff Ivey, who was involved in the context of these alleged bribery attempts. The evidence from the indictment and corroborating reports supports this conclusion.
