Protection of the U.S. Treasury and federal grant programs against theft, fraud, waste and abuse is a top priority of this office and the Department of Justice, D. Michael Dunavant, the U.S. attorney for the Western District of Tennessee, said in a statement on Wednesday. We commend the F.B.I. and the HHS-OIG for their diligent and thorough investigation in this case.
Janika White, Ms. Robinsons lawyer, declined to comment on the specifics of the complaint but noted that the claim was not an indictment.
As for Senator Robinson, she is very strong, Ms. White said. Shes a fighter and shes been out here doing what we all want people to do step up and serve others. Thats what shes been doing, and right now all she can do is stand on her record and hope that people allow the facts to unfold and allow her story to be told at the appropriate time.
The case is expected to be presented to a grand jury, the prosecutors office said. If convicted on the charges, Ms. Robinson could face up to 20 years in prison and a $250,000 fine.
Adam Kleinheider, a spokesman for Lt. Gov. Randy McNally, who is a Republican, said that because of the serious criminal charges, Mr. McNally would ask the Senate Ethics Committee to investigate.
In a statement, the Tennessee Senate Democratic Caucus said, Senator Robinsons work in the state legislature on behalf of her constituents is not in question here today.
Just like every other American, Senator Robinson deserves the presumption of innocence and due process under the law, the statement said. Her case should be resolved by a court of law, not by the court of public opinion.
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