Newly elected northwest side San Antonio City Councilman Manny Pelaez today missed his first Council meeting...but he has a first of its kind excuse...he was working as an undercover informant for the FBI.
Pelaez told News Radio 1200 WOAI he was the personal lawyer for former Crystal City City Attorney James Jonas when Jones approached him about participating in a kickback scheme.
Pelaez says he went to the FBI and blew the whistle on the case, and service as an undercover informant. Last year, the FBI raided City Hall in Crystal City and arrested Jonas, as well as former Mayor Ricardo Lopez and several other city officials.
Today, Pelaez testified against the pair in their trial in federal court.
"I have promised the U.S. Attorney's office that I will not discuss my participation in their investigation or myh anticipated testimony" Pelaez said. "For the time being, I can only say I hope all public officials watch this case carefully, it serves as a cautionary reminder that we have a sacred duty to uphold the law and keep the highest standards of ethics at all times."
The officials inCrystal City are facing charges in connection with what prosecutors say was a massive pay to play scheme, involving business people paying city officials under the table for permits and other city services.