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On Monday, July 8, Thomas pleaded guilty to fourth-degree attempted grand larceny and second-degree offering a false statement for filing. He will also resign from office as of Monday, Sept. 30.
“The road to redemption is riddled with twists, turns, tight straits, and the reality is 13 million Americans get caught up in the misdemeanor system, where it’s very difficult to defend yourself, especially when you’re poor,” he said. “Thank you to the people of Mount Vernon for standing up to dirty politics.”
Thomas admitted that he stole $12,900 from his campaign committee in 2015 and failed to report the receipt of $4,000 and falsely claimed that a $2,500 payment was a reimbursement. According to the criminal complaint, prior to Thomas filing his 2017 annual statement of financial disclosure with the city, he learned of the existence of the Attorney General’s investigation.
Funds were also allegedly used for personal expenses that included rent for his family residence, car loans, and a payment for three automobile insurance policies for two vehicles on which Thomas was listed as the owner, and another vehicle registered to one of Thomas’ relatives.
“I take responsibility for the mistakes I made, but was never given a chance to correct anything,” the mayor added. “That’s where I have to draw the line and call a spade a spade.”
The plea deal on Monday morning came as jury selection was about to begin for his trial.
“Thank god for closing the door, which would have led to a place that was far worse than the outcome of today,” Thomas said. “I want to make it clear, that if I had no children, had I not had a real future to lose, I would have loved my day in court. A fair day in court.
Thomas’ resignation comes weeks after his loss in the Democratic primary to Shawyn Patterson-Howard in a narrow vote that he had been challenging.
“To the people watching - don’t be discouraged, don’t be afraid, don’t stand down, stand up. Demand more. Mount Vernon is much better off than it was four years ago. And for a fact, Mount Vernon is safer than White Plains,” he shouted.
“I look forward to dealing with those that did everything to sabotage me and my family. But the future is big and i look forward to making more things happen for Mount Vernon, even if I’m not the mayor. I’m still going to recruit businesses to create jobs and I’m going to work to clean up the environment. There is no end, just a beginning.”
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