Commissioner Sylvia Handy Arrested

April 2, 2009 News    Print    Email this Article   1 Comment

Hidalgo County Commissioner Sylvia Handy walked out of federal court this afternoon after being arrested this morning as part of an ongoing federal investigation. She says, it all took her by surprise. Prosecutors allege Handy paid un-documented immigrants more than $100,000 in taxpayer money for personal services over the course of four years. The six-count indictment goes on to say handy used money to pay off a $50,000 consolidation loan issued in her name. Her defense attorney says he will look closely at the allegations. As the investigation continues, Hidalgo County Judge J.D. Salinas says Precint One will continue to operate unless Handy turns in her resignation. Handy claims she has not been involved in any illegal activity to defraud taxpayers of their money. This is not the first time commissioner handy has come under public scrutiny. If convicted she could face up to 10 years in federal prison and up to $250,000 in fines. We will continue to follow this story and bring you the very latest information.