Former NJ Council President Admits Corruption Guilt

NEWARK, N.J. (AP) -- Jersey City's former city council president has admitted his role in New Jersey's largest political corruption bust.

Mariano Vega Jr. pleaded guilty to one count of extortion conspiracy Tuesday in federal court in Newark. Vega faces a maximum prison term of 20 years but is expected to serve much less after he's sentenced.

Vega was one of 44 people arrested last July in a massive federal sting. He was indicted on several bribery and extortion counts for allegedly accepting cash from a government informant posing as a crooked developer.

Vega remained on the Jersey City council since his arrest. However, he sent a one-sentence letter Monday announcing his resignation.

He's the 20th defendant to plead guilty. Two others were convicted at trial.

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