Liquor Store Owner Sentenced In Corruption Scheme

GREENBELT, Md. (AP) -- The owner of several Prince George's County liquor stores has been sentenced to nearly four years in prison for his role in a corruption scheme that involved former county executive Jack Johnson.

Amrik Melhi, 52, was sentenced Tuesday to three years and 10 months in prison. He pleaded guilty in June to conspiring to transport and distribute untaxed alcoholic beverages.

Federal prosecutors say Melhi bribed a police officer to help him smuggle untaxed alcohol and gave money, campaign donations and other gifts to Johnson in exchange for licenses, permits and favorable legislation. Former county police officer Richard Delabrer pleaded guilty to his role in the scheme and is awaiting sentencing. Melhi's wife, Ravinder, received probation for her role.

Johnson was sentenced this month to more than seven years in prison.

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