Another Indictment for Suspended DeKalb County CEO Burrell Ellis

2 counts of Theft by Taking

2 counts of Coercion of Other Employee to Give Anything of Value for Political Purpose

1 count of Theft by Extortion

1 count of Conspiracy in Restraint of Free and Open Competition

1 count of Bribery

3 counts of Perjury

This indictment alleges criminal activity as detailed in last years’ indictment and with some of the same accusers.

For example, it charges Burrell Ellis threatened to prevent CIBER, Inc and Joanne Wise, from receiving business from DeKalb County because Wise did not contribute to Ellis’ campaign.

This story is developing.

Meanwhile, Burrell Ellis is maintaining his innocence and claiming the county District Attorney is out to “destroy” him.

WABE’s Rose Scott reports, Ellis took to social media to make his claims.

In two minutes and forty-four seconds, Burrell Ellis describes what he says is a politically motivated case against him.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qzQQWionGO0

Ellis was indicted last summer on charges including criminal theft by extortion and conspiracy to defraud a political subdivision.

WABE legal analyst and criminal defense attorney Page Pate says Ellis putting these messages out in the public could be detrimental.

“In a video, then the prosecutor can certainly take cuts of that video and use it against you at trial.”

In a statement to WABE, a spokesperson for DeKalb County District Attorney Robert James said, “we are aware of the video and have no additional comments at this time.”