California Lawmaker Charged With Corruption

Federal law enforcement authorities in California have charged a Democratic state lawmaker and his brother with multiple counts involving bribery, kickbacks and cover-ups.

Los Angeles U.S. Attorney Andre Birotte says Sen. Ron Calderon took $100,000 in cash bribes plus plane trips, golf trips and gourmet meals.

The alleged scheme involved working for or against certain legislation.

The 24-count indictment was filed Thursday in federal court in Los Angeles against Calderon and his brother, Tom, a former state lawmaker who now works as a lobbyist.

Calderon has denied wrongdoing, and his attorney, Mark Geragos, did not return telephone messages Friday seeking comment.