BOSTON (WBZ NewsRadio) — A federal jury found former Fall River Mayor Jasiel Correia guilty Friday of 21 of the 24 charges against him.
The jury deliberated for about four days before coming to a verdict. The corruption trial began nearly three weeks ago.
Correia was charged with defrauding investors who backed his app SnoOwl out of more than $200,000, forcing his former chief of staff to pay him in kickbacks, and collecting bribes from companies looking to open marijuana businesses in Fall River.
Following the verdict, Fall River Mayor Paul Coogan said Friday marked "the end of a long chapter in Fall River's history -- a chapter that does not at all reflect the true character of [the] City."
"[Correia] made the unfortunate choice to use his official duties and powers to benefit himself, when he should have been acting in the best interest of our community," the statement said. "My hope is that this decision provides closure to our community so that we may move on towards the bright future that I know is ahead for Fall River."
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The former mayor was arrested in October of 2018, and then again in September of 2019 in connection to corruption charges.
Correia was first elected as mayor in 2015 at the age of 23. He was recalled by voters in March of 2019, only to be re-elected the same night.
However, Correia was ousted by voters following his second arrest.
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(Photo: Kim Tunnicliffe/WBZ NewsRadio)