Ex-Lawmaker Arrested, Allegedly Embezzled From Campaign Fund

State police say a former Rhode Island lawmaker has been arrested for allegedly embezzling money from his campaign finance fund.

Former state Rep. Peter Palumbo was arrested Thursday and later released on $5,000 personal recognizance following his arraignment.

The 54-year-old Cranston Democrat is accused of embezzlement and filing a false document with a public official.

State Police say the investigation began after a Board of Elections audit revealed Palumbo wasn't accounting for about $59,000 in cash withdrawals from campaign funds.

Investigators say he also withdrew about $16,000 from ATMs at seven different casinos over five years.

Palumbo lost his seat in 2014 after questions about contract bids at state beaches.

Copyright AP - Associated Press
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