FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:

August 11, 2003

Kesha Handy               
P. O. Box 61129 Houston, TX 77208
Phone: 713/567-9335 Fax: 713/718-3390
E-Mail: usatty.txs@usdoj.gov

IRS REVENUE AGENT CHARGED WITH BRIBERY
Contact AUSA: Melissa Annis
Phone: 713/567-9736

(HOUSTON) United States Attorney Michael Shelby announced today that Noe Rodriguez, a 19-year veteran IRS revenue agent, has been charged with bribery. Rodriguez was arrested late Friday evening by special agents of the Department of Treasury's Inspector General for Tax Administration, who conducted the investigation leading to the criminal charges.

According to allegations in the complaint, in July, 2003, Rodriguez solicited a $500,000 bribe from an individual in exchange for ensuring that a civil audit he was conducting would not reach the individual nor be converted into a criminal investigation. On July 28, 2003, Rodriguez allegedly agreed to accept $250,000, with an additional $100,000 to be paid in eight months. At a pre-planned meeting on August 8, 2003, the individual delivered and Rodriguez received the $250,000 bribe. Following the meeting, Rodriguez was arrested by federal agents, who had monitored the meeting.

Rodriguez made a initial appearance in federal court this morning, and has been ordered detained in federal custody pending a probable cause and detention hearing scheduled for Wednesday, August 13, 2003.

Bribery carries a maximum penalty of15 years in prison and a $250,000 fine.

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