Angelique Lee, the former Ward 2 Councilwoman of Jackson, Mississippi, pled guilty Wednesday in federal court to a charge of conspiracy to commit bribery. The charge stems from allegations that Lee accepted cash and luxury items in exchange for her vote on an undisclosed real estate deal in Jackson.

The charge of conspiracy to commit bribery carries a maximum penalty of five years in prison, a $250,000 fine, and up to three years of supervised release. Lee’s sentencing is scheduled for November 13.

The bribery scheme came to light as part of a broader investigation involving undercover FBI agents posing as real estate developers from Nashville. According to court documents, in February and March 2024, Lee accepted bribes in the form of a $10,000 electronic transfer to pay off campaign debt, $3,000 in cash, and approximately $6,000 spent on luxury items at a Jackson retail store. These payments were funneled through a co-conspirator’s bank account. Among the items Lee purchased with the bribes were designer sandals, a tote bag, and other luxury goods, all of which she has agreed to forfeit as part of her plea agreement.

The charges against Lee follow an FBI raid in May targeting the office and business of Hinds County District Attorney Jody Owens and a visit to Jackson City Hall. Owens and other city officials, including Mayor Chokwe Antar Lumumba, declined to comment on Lee’s case.

Earlier Wednesday, Lee’s resignation from the Jackson City Council was announced by Ward 7 Councilwoman Virgi Lindsay during a press conference. Lee, who was first elected in 2020, had previously served as the Council’s Vice President.

The council is now required to meet within the next 10 days to schedule a special election to fill the Ward 2 seat, which must occur within 30-45 days after the meeting.