Tulsa Public Works Employees Indicted for Graft

The U.S. Government indicted two former employees of the City of Tulsa's Pubic Works Department. Larry Wayne Baker, 52, formerly the Design Engineering Manager, and Albert S. Martinez, 47, formerly the Field Engineering Manager, for the City were charged separately for taking bribes to influence awards and also to allow over billing by contractors. Tulsa Today reports on these charges. Four different engineering and contracting companies have been charged as well. Martinez faces more charges then Baker and received substantially more in bribes from the companies. This type of case is a common aspect of corruption and happens at the local, State and Federal level. Contracting and officials related to acquisition take bribes from companies to influence them in awarding contracts. Since government spends a great deal of money there is a substantial temptation there for the parties involved.