(Little Rock, AR) The Arkansas State Treasurer is accused of taking cash from a broker and giving him state business in return.
Monday, Martha Shoffner went before a federal judge on extortion charges and many in Arkansas are angry over the allegations.
“It’s a shame,” said Terri Brassfield, an Arkansas resident.
She expects more out of her elected officials after learning Shoffner was brought up on federal charges.
“We elect them to be honest and have integrity and serve us and protect us and represent us and we expect integrity,” she said.
A federal complaint claims Shoffner pushed business to one broker in exchange for multiple cash payments. The complaint says Shoffner received more than $30,000 often delivered in a pie box. She is responsible for the states $3.3 Billion worth of stocks and bonds.
“The allegations against Ms. Shoffner are very serious,” said Randy Coleman of the FBI. “Because she is the treasurer she is the head banker of this state. She is entrusted with handling the collection, investment and disbursement of hard-earned taxpayer dollars.”
The complaint says Shoffner admitted to taking the cash.
In light of these allegations the Arkansas Republican Party, and some democratic leaders are calling for Shoffner’s resignation, but leaving court today she told reporters she has no plans on stepping down.
