Former Law Enforcement Officer is Sentenced for Extortion

Oxford, MS - A former Ruleville police officer was sentenced today to 7 years in prison for extortion under color of law.

According to court documents, Antonio Wade, 37, previously pled guilty to extorting money from an illegal alien during a traffic stop. At sentencing it was revealed that Wade engaged in a pattern of such activity. Senior U.S. District Judge Michael P. Mills sentenced Wade to 84 months in prison followed by 3 years of supervised release. Wade was remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshal following sentencing.

U.S. Attorney Scott Leary stated, "Open borders resulted in a tsunami of illegal drugs and a human trafficking crisis. While illegal entry is a crime, those that do enter illegally should never be extorted by those in power. Public service is a public trust and maintaining that trust is essential. In this case, Homeland Security Investigation (HSI) agents demonstrated how seriously they take their duty. HSI Special Agents worked tirelessly to address this wrong. I honor their efforts."

"Wade's conviction and sentencing send a clear message that no one is above the law, especially those sworn to enforce it," said HSI New Orleans Acting Special Agent in Charge Matt Wright. "HSI stands firm in its commitment to bring to justice anyone who betrays their responsibilities and threatens public trust."

This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Robert Mims.