SANTA FE, N.M. (AP) — Prosecutors are recommending that a former New Mexico state senator convicted of fraud, bribery and felony ethical violations be sentenced to 10 years in prison and pay fines.
The recommendations for Phil Griego's punishment were outlined in court documents filed Monday by the New Mexico Attorney General's Office.
Prosecutors say the recommendations are aimed at deterring similar misconduct by elected officials and at adequately punishing Griego for betraying the public's trust.
Griego will be sentenced Friday in Santa Fe.
Prosecutors accused Griego of using his elected position and acumen as a real estate broker to guide the sale of a state-owned building in Santa Fe through various approvals without properly disclosing his financial interest.
Griego maintained he did nothing wrong in earning a $50,000 commission from buyers of the property.