The original indictment, unsealed Apr. 18, charged that Martin paid for Biernat's plumbing work at the same time Biernat and his colleagues were approving Martin's appointment to the city board that certifies plumbers to work in the city. The new indictment also increases the amount of money Martin is charged with stealing to $43,323, taken on six occasions between 1998-2001. Originally, he was charged with a $17,877 embezzlement. The indictment gives no indication of how Martin used the other money he allegedly stole.
Reportedly, Martin and Biernat used the mail to send invoices and checks related to the plumbing work. In addition to mail fraud, the two face charges of extortion, conspiracy, and theft. Biernat also faces charges of making a false statement. Martin allegedly obstructed justice and concealed information from investigators.
Since the indictments were first returned, City Council President Paul Ostrow (DFL) proposed that the licensing boards be eliminated. Disturbingly, Biernat, still in office, insisted on conducting the first hearing on the proposed change in mid-May as chairman of the council's Public Safety & Regulatory Servs. Committee, despite Ostrow's fears that it might appear to be a conflict of interest. Action on the plan was delayed to give unions and businesses time to comment on the proposal. [Star Trib. (Minneapolis) 5/22/02]
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