SAN ANTONIO --
Earlier this week, the chief of the Laredo Police Department abruptly retired, and Friday he pleaded guilty to his role in an extortion scheme.
According to the U.S. attorney's office, Laredo Chief Agustin Dovalina accepted more than $13,000 in cash and gifts. The payments were made by the owner of an illegal 8-liner business.
Prosecutors said the alleged payments ensured the gambling operation would not be shut down.
Last year, federal investigators recorded meetings between the chief and the 8-liner owner -- who was working as a witness for the government.
In those meetings, the chief was allegedly handed two cash payments of $5,000 in addition to golf outings and other gifts.
The chief was introduced to the informant by two of his officers who had also been receiving bribe money and gifts for several years.
After pleading guilty, the chief apologized for his behavior.
"Obviously there was a lapse in judgment," said Dovalina. "Circumstances in my personal life obviously played a major role in this lapse. Again, I apologize to this community -- especially my family and to my law enforcement colleagues. I made a mistake, an error that will haunt me the rest of my life."
The former chief faces 20 years in prison but has been released on bond until his sentencing date is set.
The two officers involved in the scheme have also pleaded guilty and are awaiting sentencing.
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