Sharpe James Convicted

As you have probably heard by now ex-Mayor of Newark, Sharpe James, has been handed a guilty verdict. Here is East Ward Councilman Augusto “Augie” Amador’s reaction as reported by the Star-Ledger:

East Ward Councilman Augusto Amador, who testified in the trial, called it “a sad day for Newark.”

“I feel sorry for his family and I feel sorry for those who put their trust in him,” Amador said. “We as public officials deposit our souls and our hearts in the hands of the people.”

Amador said he was a little surprised by the verdict, which he learned about online.

“I expected her to be found guilty,” he said, referring to Riley. Amador said he didn’t think it would have taken this long to convict her.

Amador said the jury was savvy enough to realize James’ defense, which blamed the council for the sales, was not true.

“The jury was smart enough to understand the responsibility for the process lied in the administration,” he said.

Full Star-Ledger coverage of Newark ex-Mayor Sharpe James’ trial.