As jazz musicians Irvin Mayfield and Ronald Markham face a possible term of five years in prison for siphoning $1.3 million meant for New Orleans' public library charity for their own use, they appear to have surprising supporters in their corner.
Two officials from the highest ranks in the community -- Mayor LaToya Cantrell and Sheriff Marlin Gusman -- came out publicly during a Mayfield performance Saturday and threw him their support, according to people who were there.
“...Let’s continue to support one another," Cantrell said from the stage. "And more importantly, let’s continue to support a true son of the city of New Orleans, Irvin Mayfield.”
Concert attendees said Gusman made similar remarks in a show of support for Mayfield.
The comments from those tasked with supporting law and order enraged Dixon Stetler, executive director of the Friends of the New Orleans Public Library.
“I don't understand,” she said to WWL-TV. “He pled guilty to taking $1.3 million and I don't understand why we have to support him…. There are so many culture bearers in this city who deserve our support who aren't stealing from the library.”
Stetler said the mayor's message is particularly confusing for voters who are being asked to renew a library tax this fall.
What should voters think? WWL-TV asked the Mayor to explain, and a spokeswoman said, "No comment."
As for Mayfield, his attorney Claude Kelly says the musician hopes to convince the judge prior to sentencing that there's more to the case than “the headline.” He told WWL-TV Mayfield is "really looking forward to being able to present the full picture -- accepting full responsibility -- but present the full picture to Judge Zainey before he makes his final decision."
Mayfield and his business partner pleaded guilty to spending Library Foundation money on their own six-figure salaries, plus lavish trips with luxury hotels, meals, liquor and limos.A final sentencing date has not yet been set.