News4Jax.com Governor Suspends St. Johns Commissioner Accused In Bribes -- FBI: Thomas Manuel Took $60K In Bribes

News4Jax.com

Governor Suspends St. Johns Commissioner Accused In Bribes
FBI: Thomas Manuel Took $60K In Bribes



ST. AUGUSTINE, Fla. -- One day after St. Johns County Commission Chairman Thomas Manuel was indicted on two counts of bribery, Florida Gov. Charlie Crist suspended him from office.

The suspension comes hours after Manuel requested a leave of absence, claiming the leave was due to health problems and maintaining his innocence.

Manuel is free on $50,000 bond after surrendering Thursday on the federal indictment that charges that he "knowingly and corruptly solicited, demanded, accepted and agreed to accept" $10,000 and $50,000 bribes for his influence in business pending before the St. Johns County Commission.

The bribes allegedly occurred between April 10 and June 5 of this year and were investigated by the FBI's Public Corruption Unit.

St. Johns County Administrator Michael Wanchick's office announced Friday morning that Manuel relinquished his responsibilities with the county, effective immediately, and released this statement:
"I have decided to temporarily step away from my role as County Commissioner and Chairman because it is in the best interest of the people of St. Johns County. However, I maintain my innocence and I have always acted in the best interest of the citizens whom I serve. I look forward to clearing my name and moving forward."

Per established board policy, Vice-Chairwoman Cyndi Stevenson will assume the role of chair of the commission.

Just before 4 p.m., Gov. Charlie Crist issued an executive order suspending Manuel, saying in part:
"Thomas Manuel is prohibited from performing any official act, duty or function of public office; from receiving any pay or allowance; and from being entitled to any of the benefits or privileges of public office during the period of this suspension."

According to the county's Web site, Manuel, 63, lives in Ponte Vedra Beach. He retired after careers in the U.S. Navy, banking and running a travel agency.

Despite repeated attempts Thursday evening and Friday morning, Channel 4 has been able to reach Manuel for a comment on the indictment. In June, when WJXT confirmed that Manuel was under investigation by the FBI, he told reporter Jennifer Bauer that he believed the investigation was politically motivated.

If convicted, Manuel could face up to 20 years in prison and a fine of $500,000.

Manuel's seat is not one of those up for election this year. Mark Miner, who won the August primary and has no opposition in the general election, issued the following statement:
"Now more than ever it is imperative that the new Board of Commissioners and the County Staff unite and work diligently to re-establish the trust of the citizens of St. Johns County. While the alleged actions of Commission Chairman Tom Manuel are regrettable and inexcusable, my thoughts and prayers are with his family during this very difficult time."