June 20th, 2013 – Resolution of Criminal Charges Against Lashunda Scales

Jefferson County District Attorney Brandon Falls announces the resolution of criminal charges against Birmingham City Councilwoman Lashunda Scales. Councilwoman Scales pleaded guilty to one count of Ethics Violations and one count of interfering with a voter while inside the polling place. She was sentenced to a period of twelve months incarceration. Upon application for probation, the Court placed her on probation for a period of one year. Court costs were ordered to be paid within thirty days.

The underlying offenses are based on two distinct incidents. The Voting Violation involved improper contact between Councilwoman Scales and a voter during the October 2012 City of Birmingham bond referendum at the Sun Valley Elementary School polling place. While Ms. Scales had been previously warned about discussing issues on the ballot inside the polling place, she initiated contact with a voter in regards to matters on the ballot. Specifically, she attempted to engage a voter in a discussion regarding the bond issue on the ballot while inside the voting place.

The Ethics Violation involved the improper use of city resources in a private venture. Councilwoman Scales was employed as a promoter for a carnival being held on the grounds of the Birmingham Jefferson Convention Complex. According to the contract, Ms. Scales would receive 25% of the profit from the carnival. City of Birmingham trucks and employees were used to drain water from the lot used for the carnival. Ultimately, Ms. Scales received over $30,000 in income for her work as a promoter of this particular carnival.

The above resolution of the charges was appropriate based upon the facts and circumstances of this individual case. This Office continues to encourage the public to report any improper conduct by public officials or public employees. Any election violations should be reported to the Probate Judge, the City Clerk, and/or the Alabama Secretary of State. Any Ethics Violations, such as improper use of office for personal benefit, should be reported to the Alabama Ethics Commission and local law enforcement.

This Office will continue to strive for honest, open government and compliance with the law. The District Attorney’s Office wishes to extend its thanks to the Alabama Ethics Commission, the Alabama Attorney General’s Office, the Alabama Secretary of State, and the Election Officials of the City of Birmingham for the successful prosecution of this case.