Update 4/23/2014) All charges against Kimberly Chism have been dropped.
We are working to get more details.
(Memphis ) Kimberly Chism was quiet as she walked into a Shelby County General Session courtroom Friday morning.
Chism was arraigned on charges of disorderly conduct after police say she was yelling and cursing while federal agents were searching her businesses and home Thursday.
“Can’t say anything yet. Don’t know anything, it’s all too early. No comment right now until we know more about it,” said Chism’s attorney outside of court Friday.
Daycares, a car wash, lounge and several other businesses, mainly listed to Chism and Remark Chism were searched Thursday by the Secret Service, USDA, US Marshalls, Tennessee Depart of Human Services and MPD’s Organized Crime Unit.
Former US Attorney’s Office prosecutor Linda Harris says the agencies involved indicates where the investigation is headed.
“It could be that they’re investigating food stamp fraud, or nutrition program fraud and money laundering,” said Harris. Harris also said Thursday raids, show agents already have evidence.
“They have to provide probable cause to get the search warrants. So they have been investigating more likely than not on this case for probably several months at least.”
Harris explained prison time will depend on the severity of the crime.
“The sentencing guidelines and the amount of time that an individual be sentenced to in connection with an offense depends upon the amount involved,” added Harris.
