East Orange Construction Official Faces Corruption Charges

Corruption charges have been brought against an East Orange construction official accused of accepting a $5,000 bribe.

Kim Davis, a 45-year-old New York resident who formerly lived in Newark, pleaded not guilty Tuesday to extortion, conspiracy and bribery counts. The charges were contained in a federal grand jury indictment that was unsealed earlier Tuesday, but officials have not said what Davis had promised in exchange for the cash payment.

Prosecutors say Davis, who works in the city's property maintenance department, accepted the bribe in September 2007 from an East Orange property owner in exchange for helping the owner in city government matters.

East Orange officials announced Tuesday night that Davis has been suspended without pay. He has worked for the city since December 2003.