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Houston Housing Funds Misused for Lavish Lifestyles
9 Apr
Summary
- Former manager admitted to taking public funds meant for affordable housing.
- Over $8.5 million stolen or misused from 2011 to 2021.
- Funds were used for luxury items and personal benefit instead of housing.
Todd Edwards, former real estate manager for Houston's Midtown Redevelopment Authority, pleaded guilty to money laundering and theft. He admitted to diverting public funds designated for affordable housing in Third Ward for personal enrichment. An investigation revealed Edwards created a landscaping company to pay himself for nonexistent work.
Approximately $8.5 million was stolen or misused from 2011 to 2021. The misappropriated funds were used for expensive cars, homes, trips, and pornography. Two other individuals, Veronica Ugorji and Kenneth Jones, have also been charged. Ugorji allegedly owned a landscaping company and had a romantic relationship with Edwards, while Jones is accused of accepting money for demolition work that never occurred. Edwards' sentencing is scheduled for June, with potential penalties ranging from probation to 40 years in prison.
