Co-defendant pleads guilty, reaches deal in Palm Bay corruption case

PALM BAY, Fla. – Jose Aguiar, the man at the center of a corruption scandal in Palm Bay, has pleaded guilty to criminal conspiracy, a third-degree felony.

In return, the state agreed to drop felony racketeering and conspiracy to commit racketeering charges, according to News 6 partner Florida Today.

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Sentencing is set for Jan. 7. Aguiar faces up to five years in prison and a $5,000 fine. Had he been convicted on all charges he faced up to 65 years in prison and a $25,000 fine.

This is a developing story. Check back for updates.