3 more charged in Ohio corruption investigation

CLEVELAND (AP) — Three business people have been charged here in a widening investigation of alleged contract steering in the Ohio Department of Transportation.

The charges of bribery, theft and attempted records tampering were filed today. They bring to six the number of defendants charged in the investigation.

All six are due in court Wednesday, and the Cuyahoga County prosecutor expects charges against two more people next week.

Seven ODOT employees resigned or were fired last year after a state report outlining nearly $11 million in questionable or improper payments to contractors.

Employees allegedly accepted lap dances at strip clubs, fishing trips and other favors for steering contracts.