Pedro Espada, Son Plead Not Guilty To New Tax Fraud Charges
NEW YORK (CBSNewYork/AP) -- Former New York State Senator Pedro Espada and his son, Pedro G. Espada, returned to court Tuesday to be arraigned on additional tax-fraud and conspiracy charges.
The Espadas were accused of cheating on their taxes, as well as stealing more than $500,000 from their health clinic in the Bronx. In addition to theft and embezzlement charges, they were charged with tax evasion.
Both pleaded not guilty. They were free on $750,000 bail.
Prosecutors said the senator used the funds on expensive meals and pony rides for a family birthday party.
At a brief court hearing on March 4, a Brooklyn judge scheduled jury selection for Sept. 12.
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