Miami News-Record
Sunday, August 4, 1996
3rd gambling distributor admits to bribing Walker
TULSA, Okla., (AP) – A businessman has admitted that he paid bribes to Ottawa County Sheriff James “Ed” Walker.
Michael W. Roberts of Neosho, M0., pleaded guilty to corruption charges Friday. He is the third distributor of illegal gambling devices to plead guilty to federal charges stemming from an 18-month investigation.
All three have agreed to testify against Walker. The sheriff’s trial on a 12-count indictment is scheduled for Sept. 16.
Roberts, 34, told U.S. District Judge Michael Burrage that he conspired with his father and with Walker to obstruct state gambling laws.
Roberts and his father, George W. Roberts, ran the Ozark Amusement Co., which distributed video gambling machines to bars and restaurants in Ottawa County.
Players who won would be given credits which would be cashed in by the bar and restaurant. Those business would split their profits with the Robertses.
Michael Roberts said he paid a percentage of the profits to Walker to prevent Walker from enforcing state gambling laws.
His father previously said Walker’s cut was 10 percent, which normally amounted to $200 to $400 per week.
Walker is on paid suspension. He did not file for re-election but said he plans to finish out his term if he is acquitted on charges including extortion and obstruction of justice.
He said Friday that he knew Michael Roberts and considered him a friend. He said his attorney had instructed him not to comment on the case.
George Roberts said the sheriff contacted him in 1995 and said the sheriff’s office needed money to purchase tires, cars and other equipment.
“He said that whoever operated machines in county would pay him money,” George Roberts previously said in court.
The father and son both pleaded guilty to charges of illegal gambling conspiracy and obstruction of justice. They face up to 15 years of federal prison and a possible $750,000 fine.
Another distributor, Lawrence “Buddy” Brumback of Ketchum, pleaded guilty last month to the same charges.
Brumback admitted making only two payments totaling $220 to Walker in early 1995. However, his admitted role in the conspiracy continued another seven months.
Back
