Stapleton and Johnson Guilty on 37 Counts | Santa Fe News

A federal jury just convicted former state Rep. Sheryl Williams Stapleton and her longtime friend Joseph Johnson on 37 counts including fraud, bribery, and money laundering. Stapleton, who oversaw Career and Technical Education in Albuquerque Public Schools, allegedly funneled millions in public funds to Johnson’s company through blank checks — totaling over $1.1 million spent by her personally. Prosecutors argued the duo concealed a massive conflict of interest, showing disclosure forms that failed to report the illicit payments. Evidence also revealed Johnson’s company billed the district twice for a $40K license fee. Defense teams countered with lack of digital proof of collusion, claiming Stapleton took money from Johnson — not taxpayers — and Johnson claimed he was unaware of her actions. Now, both are out on bail as sentencing looms — a sobering case about power, accountability, and the hidden costs of public trust. Listen in comfort:Get a discount on a Soli Pillow: http://solipillow.com/discount/dnn. Advertise on DNN:[email protected] This is an automated, high-level news summary based on public reporting.Report issues to [email protected]. View sources & latest updates:https://sources.thednn.ai/a7087edc42160742