Upland Mayor And Fellow Official Indicted On Bribery Charges

UPLAND (AP) — The former mayor of Upland and one of his appointees have been indicted by a federal grand jury for allegedly taking bribes from local businesses that sought help from the city.

John Victor Pomierski, 56, is expected to turn himself in Thursday to face charges of conspiracy, extortion and accepting bribes.

John Edward Hennes, a member of the city's Building Appeals Board, was indicted on conspiracy, extortion and making false statements to the FBI. Hennes, 54, was arrested Thursday morning.

Pomierski abruptly resigned as mayor last week amid the investigation.

The former mayor is facing 145 years in prison according to CalCoastNews.com.

Two other people were arrested last month on charges of aiding and abetting and have entered into sealed plea agreements.

Pomierski and Hennes will make a first court appearance Thursday afternoon in Riverside.

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