Phila. Councilman will announce decision on indicted aide
Philadelphia City Councilman Jack Kelly today is expected to announce whether Christopher Wright, who was indicted on federal fraud charges two weeks ago, will continue serving as Kelly's chief of staff.
Philadelphia City Councilman Jack Kelly today is expected to announce whether Christopher Wright, who was indicted on federal fraud charges two weeks ago, will continue serving as Kelly's chief of staff.
Kelly's lawyer, George Bochetto, said yesterday he will release a statement this afternoon. That statement will likely say whether Kelly will fire Wright, or ask him to resign or take an unpaid leave of absence.
Wright, along with Kelly's campaign treasurer and two developers who were also campaign donors, was accused of accepting $16,000 worth of gifts, housing and legal services in exchange for favors he provided at City Hall, including Council legislation.
Wright has remained on the city payroll since his indictment, using up vacation time, according to Council President Anna Verna's office. Wright gets 20 vacation days a year, and last year carried over 17 days.
Whether Wright's pension is jeopardized depends on a potential conviction, and the determination of the city Pension Board.
Wright began working for the city in 1988 as an aide to former Councilman Thatcher Longstreth. Also, before joining Kelly's office in 2004, he worked under the direction of Councilman Brian O'Neill.
