Green Bay's Mayor Charged in Campaign Finance Investigation

Green Bay’s Mayor James Schmitt has been indicted for attempting to accept a campaign contribution funds not belonging to reported contributor.

Schmitt was charged with attempting to accept campaign contribution in excess of limits.

In addition, he was charged with giving false statements to an election official.

Schmitt allegedly accepted contributions from corporations during the previous campaign period of 2011 to 2015.

Schmitt alleged accepted contributions exceeding the limit of $1,040.

In January 2015, Schmitt amended campaign finance reports for 2012, 2013 and 2014.

The mayor issued a statement that said in part, “For over a year, the transactions and the reporting of my campaign account have been thoroughly scrutinized by Milwaukee Assistant District Attorney Bruce Landgraf, an expert in campaign finance law. With the assistance of my counsel, I have fully cooperated with this review by voluntarily producing all relevant records for examination. Mr. Landgraf has concluded that my handling and reporting of my campaign account was contrary to law…While I may disagree with some of his conclusions, I do not dispute his factual findings nor his belief that all responsibility for accuracy and compliance rests with me.”