Stapleton Trial Opens Amid Taxpayer Money Claims | Albuquerque News

Former state Rep. Sheryl Williams Stapleton’s long-awaited federal trial finally begins, accused of siphoning millions via an online learning program — the prosecution calling it a “corrupt bargain.” Her defense admits she took unreported funds but argues they weren’t taxpayer money. Her alleged partner, Joseph Johnson, is portrayed by his defense as the real victim, defrauded by Stapleton. The case hinges on whether the money was truly public funds — and with key testimony from Albuquerque Public Schools’ CFO looming, the jury faces a complex, high-stakes unraveling over the next two weeks. 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/20d7f6114372cbe2