Archived News

DeKalb County engineering supervisor pleads guilty to extortion

Fidelis Ogbu, 59, of DeKalb County pleaded guilty to extortion April 4 for operating what officials called a “pay-to-play” scheme.

U.S. Attorney Sally Quillian Yates said Ogbu, an engineering supervisor for the DeKalb County Department of Public Works, extorted money from a private construction contractor who was working with law enforcement as a confidential source.

Ogbu compelled the contractor to pay him off for the contractor to complete the project and to gain future work.

A federal grand jury indicted Ogbu March 6, charging him with extortion and bribery. The extortion charge carries a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison and a fine of up to $250,000.

A sentencing date has not been set.

Friday last sign-up day for Great DeKalb Cleanup

The last day for neighborhoods to sign up for the Great DeKalb Cleanup Day is April 6 and registration forms are due at 4 p.m.

The event takes place Saturday, April 28, 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Volunteers are encouraged to help beautify DeKalb County by cleaning up streets, water ways, school yards and other public spaces.

Hosea Feed the Hungry needs Easter volunteers

Hosea Feed the Hungry and Homeless is calling for volunteers to help with its annual Easter Sunday services at the Georgia Dome April 8.

From 9 a.m. until 3 p.m. Hosea Feed the Hungry will be offering haircuts, clothing, food and other services to the those in need. According to a news release, the organization is still short 500 volunteers and $10,000 in funds.

Those interested in volunteering or making donations can contact the Hosea Feed the Hungry Families in Crisis Center at (404) 373-5705 ext. 3, or cchambers@hoseafeedthehungry.com.