Wade on Birmingham

Birmingham’s Biggest Crooks: Jeff Germany

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In August, we’re celebrating Birmingham’s Biggest Crooks, whether they be liars, thieves, extortionists, swindlers or thugs. A 30-part series running daily until Birmingham mayor Larry Langford’s Aug. 31 Oct. 19 federal trial. Thanks to Bhamwiki for helping with this project.

Jeff Germany

Jeff GermanyPositions held: Jefferson County commissioner

Wanted for: misapplying county funds and conspiracy

Date of conviction: June 14, 2006

Sentence: 3 years 7 months in prison, plus repaying the county $126,860

Criminally fun fact: Germany funneled $479,990 in public funds through the nonprofit Jefferson County Committee for Economic Opportunity to benefit himself ($25,000), his wife (a Mercedes), his ex-girlfriends and business buddies. Germany’s lawyer contended during the trial that the money went to constituents in his district.

Germany said, “If you’re saying I can’t help my friends, then the only people I can help are my enemies, and I’m not going to do that.”

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