(WWJ) Macomb County's embattled former prosecutor has entered a plea to a federal charge over his alleged misuse of thousands of dollars in campaign donations.
Announced Wednesday, Eric Smith pleaded guilty to one count of obstruction of justice in an agreement with the U.S. Attorney’s Office in Detroit
Smith was being investigated for allegedly using more than $50,000 in campaign funds for his own gain. The obstruction charge relates to Smith allegedly tell his staff to lie to federal investigators looking into his spending.
"Mr. Smith encouraged at least two assistant prosecuting attorneys who worked in his office to lie to the FBI," U.S. Attorney Matthew Schneider said. "The purpose of the lies was that so Mr. Smith could obstruct a federal grand jury investigation into a wire fraud scheme that Mr. Smith was perpetrating."
Smith has also been under a investigation for his use of county forfeiture funds.
Smith's attorney John Dakmak said the plea follows months of communication and cooperation with federal officials. Dakmak added that Smith respects he must be held accountable for his misdeeds and agreed to stand in open court and answer for his actions for the benefit of the citizens of Macomb County and his family.
Smith has long denied any wrongdoing, telling reporters amid the investigation that he would be exonerated.
On Wednesday, Smith said, in a statement: "Never did I trade justice for money or any other benefit. Let me be absolutely clear: The Macomb County Prosecutor's Office was never for sale under my watch. I acted irresponsibly and recklessly, and I will be held accountable for my actions. However, I never compromised when it came to protecting the citizens of Macomb County and prosecuting criminals."
Dakmak said Smith asks that the public respect the privacy of his family in "this extremely difficult time."
"They were never involved in his activities and should not pay a price for his misconduct," Dakmak said. "As was the case when he stepped down from office in April of this year, Mr. Smith wants nothing more than for the citizens of Macomb County to be able to move forward with the selection of his successor in November. Mr. Smith knows this resolution allows that."
Smith resigned as Macomb County Prosecutor on March 30.