A refrigeration salesman faces 30 years in prison and a $750,000 fine after being convicted Wednesday of money laundering and interstate transportation of money by fraud in the failed Mississippi Beef Processors venture in Oakland.
A federal jury deliberated about two hours before finding James Draper, 59, guilty of pocketing funds for equipment meant for the plant, which went bust in 2004 – three months after opening – leaving hundreds of people jobless.
The fiasco wound up costing Mississippi taxpayers about $55 million.
“Justice has been served,” Assistant U.S. Attorney Jimmy Maxwell said after the verdict.
About the Author(s)
Magnolia Tribune
This article was produced by Magnolia Tribune staff.
More Like This
More From This Author
Previous Story
World News
|
Joseph Krauss, Associated Press
, Jon Gambrell, Associated Press
, Natalie Melzer, Associated Press
•
June 17, 2025
Israel’s strikes against Tehran broaden as Trump issues ominous warning
President Donald Trump posted an ominous message warning residents of Iran’s capital city to evacuate.
