Attorneys for suspended DeKalb CEO Burrell Ellis argues the indictment alleging Ellis shook down vendors for campaign contributions is flawed and should be dismissed.
Friday was the deadline for defense motions, and Ellis’ attorneys argue that the indictment is unclear on dates that Ellis to alleged to have solicited campaign contributions under threat. They also argue that the indictment doesn’t prove that much of Ellis’ behavior — such as asking DeKalb employees to draw up lists of recent contract awards — is illegal.
A DeKalb County grand jury originally indicted Ellis on June 18 on 15 criminal counts, 14 of them felonies. He is accused of strong-arming vendors who work for the county to contribute to his re-election campaign and threatening those who declined. Ellis was re-indicted in January on many of the same charges. One count of bribery and three counts of perjury were added. Ellis now faces 14 charges in the case.
Since police raided his home last January, Ellis has maintained his innocence.
His defense team has aggressively fought District Attorney Robert James’ prosecution so far, filing a flurry of motions to get the case dismissed and to suppress evidence.
About the Author
