Mel Franklin Pleads Guilty to Campaign Theft

Former Prince George’s County Council member Mel Franklin pleaded guilty to felony theft and perjury charges, admitting to embezzling more than $130,000 from his campaign funds for personal expenses including rent, loans, credit card debt, and cosmetic procedures. Franklin, who resigned in June before his indictment, falsified campaign finance reports to conceal his actions. As part of his plea agreement, he will serve up to one year in prison and pay restitution of $133,168.67 to his campaign committee, which will be donated to charity. His resignation has triggered a costly special election to fill his seat. Prosecutors emphasized the importance of holding elected officials accountable for violating public trust.