November 24, 2008 Turner goes after press for 'destroying' his 'reputation' Play video

(NECN: Boston, Mass.) - Boston City Council Chuck Turner held a press conference this afternoon at Boston City Hall. This came after the Boston City Council decided against taking immediate action against the five-term councilor who was allegedly photographed taking a $1,000 bribe.

Click here to watch a press conference held by Boston City Council President Maureen E. Feeney.

Turner blames the press for trying to destroy his reputation before he gets a chance to defend himself. Turner said he will act as his own lawyer in this "media trial" in which he finds himself.

The councilor was arrested in City Hall by federal authorities last week for allegedly taking a bribe from an undercover agent he thought was a businessman looking for help in obtaining a liquor license. He was later released on a $50,000 unsecured bond.

Turner is charged with one count of attempted extortion and two counts of making false statements for allegedly accepting the cash from an undercover agent working with the FBI.

His arrest was part of an ongoing public corruption probe at Boston City Hall and the Massachusetts Statehouse.