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A former high aide for Texas Agriculture Commissioner Sid Miller pled responsible Wednesday to a felony cost associated to taking cash in trade for state hemp licenses which might be issued by Miller’s workplace, in response to Travis County courtroom data.
Todd Smith, as soon as a detailed political marketing consultant for Miller, plead responsible to business bribery however not a second cost of theft, his attorneys stated.
“After Mr. Smith completes a two-year term of deferred adjudication, the Commercial Bribery case will be dismissed,” Sam Bassett and Perry Minton stated. “Mr. Smith looks forward to the completion of this matter and moving forward with his life.”
The plea deal means Smith avoids a jury trial set later this month, through which Miller was subpoenaed to testify. Sentencing has been scheduled for Nov. 15.
Travis County District Legal professional José Garza declined remark.
Smith was arrested in mid-2021, accused by legislation enforcement of taking $55,000 as a part of the scheme, in response to an arrest warrant. Smith and others have been accused of soliciting as much as $150,000 to ensure an “exclusive” hemp license from the Texas Division of Agriculture. Smith allegedly stated $25,000 of that cash could be used for a survey that he stated was required to get a license in Texas. A hemp license from the state prices $100, in response to the arrest warrant.
On the time of the indictment, Miller advised it was politically motivated and stated he didn’t imagine Smith did something improper.
Smith has a historical past of controversy over his conduct and ties to the Division of Agriculture below Miller’s management as commissioner.
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In 2018, the Austin American-Statesman reported that Smith promised a San Antonio businessperson an appointment with the Division of Agriculture in trade for a $29,000 mortgage. And in 2016, Miller gave Smith’s spouse a newly created assistant commissioner place, one of many highest-paying roles within the division.
On the time, Smith stated Miller employed his spouse instantly due to her expertise as a well being care marketing consultant to former congressmen Greg Laughlin and Joe Barton.
