Former councilman convicted of corruption gets prison term

NEW YORK – A former New York City councilman who was convicted of stealing more than $30,000 in public campaign funds and state grant money meant for a charity has been sentenced to prison.

Ruben Wills was sentenced Thursday to a term of two to six years. He also was ordered to pay about $38,000 in restitution and fines.

Prosecutors say Wills used the money to buy clothes and fancy purses, including a $750 Louis Vuitton handbag.

The Wall Street Journal reports Wills’ attorney says community service would have been more appropriate.

State Attorney General Eric Schneiderman (SHNEYE’-dur-muhn) is a fellow Democrat whose office brought the charges. He says Wills betrayed the public trust and will now “pay the price.”

Wills’ conviction on public corruption crimes is being appealed.

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Information from: The Wall Street Journal, http://www.wsj.com