By Ruth Ferguson
NDG Editor
Earlier this week the FBI raided the home and offices of long time Dallas County Commissioner John Wiley Price as well as his assistant and an adviser. Throughout the week info has continued to leak out about what the FBI is looking into. The reports show they are focused primarily on possible tax evasion, misuse of campaign funds and abuse of power and influence. It appears nearly every area of his public life is being examined including KwanzaaFest and the Inland Port deal.
By extension, prominent African Americans, politicians and businesses are being drawn into the investigation – directly and indirectly. Former Dallas Cowboy Pettis Norman and local developer Jon Edmonds were subpoenaed earlier this week and are expected to testify on July 20. Neither are sharing what evidence they are being asked to provide. The two men are linked to allegations that they attempted to pressure California real estate developer Richard Allen to hire more minority contractors for the Inland Port project located in South Dallas. State Senator Royce West’ name has been brought up as another party who may have attempted to influence Allen. For sometime Allen has alleged that Price attempted to put roadblocks in place when Allen did not respond favorably to the pressure. At this point there is no indication Sen. West is under the FBI’s spotlight.
The Millennium 2000 Gallery at the popular venue South Side on Lamar, owned by Karen Manning, described as a longtime friend of Price was visited by the FBI on June 30. WFAA reported that several agents were present, they did not remove anything but photos were taken during their day long visit. According to reporter Brett Shipp, Price has spent over $48,000 with the business.
The camp of Commissioner John Wiley Price fired back via internet radio show Center Stage Wednesday night . Vincent Hall, assistant and long time friend to Commissioner Price took the hot seat for just under two hours. When host Kheri Hines asked about the money, cars, and real estate dealings that critics of Price say proves wrongdoing, Hall set the record straight. He also asked the public NOT to rush to judgment, but instead wait until all the facts are revealed. Attached is a pod cast from that show.
http://www.blogtalkradio.com/centerstage/2011/06/30/reaction-to-dallas-commissioner-john-wiley-price-fbi-raid
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