By Rick Pluta, Michgan Public Radio Network
http://stream.publicbroadcasting.net/production/mp3/wkar/local-wkar-931115.mp3
LANSING, MI –
A convicted embezzler who talked state official into giving a multi-million dollar tax break is facing new criminal charges. We have more from Michigan Public Radio's Rick Pluta.
AUDIO:
The episode was an embarrassment for Governor Granholm and the Michigan Economic Development Corporation - even through Richard Short never got the chance to cash in on the nine million dollar tax break.
Genessee County Prosecutor David Leyton says it appears Short created a sham corporation and used fake documents and big promises to win state backing. He says even though no money changed hands, Short could have used the state's promise to swindle investors.
"The evidence indicates a massive con job by the defendant, Mister Short, against the people of Michigan," he says.
Short is already in jail awaiting trial on separate embezzlement charges. Leyton is the Democratic candidate for state attorney general against Republican nominee Bill Schuette.