Corruption Probe Targets Baton Rouge Officials: Indictment of School Superintendent Lamont Cole and Others
The East Baton Rouge Parish School Superintendent, Lamont Cole, has been indicted by a grand jury on charges of conspiracy to commit public bribery, money laundering, and malfeasance in office. This indictment is part of a broader corruption probe led by Louisiana Attorney General Liz Murrill, targeting officials in Baton Rouge. Cole's charges are related to his time as an East Baton Rouge Metro Councilman and not his role in the school system. Despite the ongoing investigation, Cole declined to discuss the matter during a recent appearance on WAFB 9News This Morning.
Before joining the school system in 2024, Cole served on the East Baton Rouge Metro Council for eight years, making history as the first African American to serve as Mayor Pro Tem. The corruption probe has already led to charges against nine individuals, including Councilman Cleve Dunn Jr., Courtney Scott, and Pearlina Thomas. Dunn faces multiple felony counts, including public contract fraud, theft, criminal conspiracy, and money laundering, while Scott is implicated in a kickback scheme tied to city-parish contracts.
Attorney General Liz Murrill emphasized the importance of holding accountable those who defraud government programs and the people of the state. The investigation into alleged corruption in Baton Rouge is ongoing, with authorities committed to rooting out misconduct and ensuring transparency in public service. Stay tuned for updates on this developing story.
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