Federal agents executed arrest warrants Tuesday for 23 Metro City public officials on charges including bribery, conspiracy, and obstruction of justice. U.S. Attorney Margaret Chen called it "the largest public corruption case in this district's history."

The Charges

According to unsealed indictments:

• Deputy Police Chief Harold Morrison faces 12 counts including bribery and conspiracy. Prosecutors allege he received $2.1 million in payments over seven years.

• Three City Council members are charged with accepting bribes in exchange for favorable zoning decisions. Alleged payments range from $50,000 to $400,000.

• Seven police precinct captains are accused of suppressing criminal complaints in exchange for payments. Combined alleged payments exceed $800,000.

All 23 defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty. Arraignments are scheduled throughout this week.

Source of Evidence

At a press conference, U.S. Attorney Chen confirmed that "a substantial portion of the evidence" was received from an anonymous digital source approximately 48 hours before the arrests. She declined to identify the source or speculate on their identity.

"The evidence speaks for itself," Chen stated. "It has been authenticated through multiple independent means. How it came to us is less important than what it reveals."

When asked whether the evidence was connected to the individual known as "TerrorByte," Chen said: "We have made no official determination regarding the source. Our focus is on the crimes documented, not on how the documents were obtained."

Legal experts note that evidence obtained through illegal means may still be admissible in federal court under certain circumstances, though defendants may challenge its use.

Reactions

Mayor Thomas Bradley: "I am shocked and disappointed by these allegations. If proven, this represents a betrayal of public trust. I am cooperating fully with federal investigators."

Metro Police Union: "All officers are entitled to due process. We urge the public to withhold judgment until these cases are resolved in court."

Council member Diana Reyes (not charged): "This is a painful day for Metro City. It is also an opportunity for reform. We must use this moment to rebuild public trust."

What Comes Next

Prosecutors indicated additional arrests are "highly likely" as the investigation continues. All defendants face potential sentences ranging from 10 to 45 years if convicted on all charges.

The U.S. Attorney's office has established a tip line for additional information: 1-800-CALL-FBI.

Indictments are public records available through the Federal District Court clerk's office.