Suspended DeKalb County CEO to be sentenced Wednesday

Ellis, the suspended CEO of Dekalb County has been sentenced to 5 years in prison, with 18 months to serve, after being found guilty of corruption and attempted theft by extortion.

Ellis maintained his innocence, saying he made phone calls, but didn’t threaten anyone or take action against vendors’ contracts.

Officials say the five-year sentence was handed down Wednesday morning.

Prosecutors contend Ellis pressured vendors for campaign contributions.

The Atlanta Journal-Constitution reports Ellis rejected a plea offer, which would’ve kept him out of jail.

Booking photo of Burrell Ellis.

Ellis’ Attorney Craig Gillen asked for five years probation and six months of home detention.

Ellis’ attorneys have already filed papers with the court indicating they’ll appeal last week’s verdict.

Ellis’ supporters applauded him and urged him to “be strong” as he was being led out of the courtroom following the denial of his appeal bond.

The attempted theft by extortion charge refers to Ellis trying to force a company called Power & Energy Services to donate to his political campaign. That announcement came shortly after a three-person panel that was assembled by the governor voted unanimously to recommend the suspension.

The trial was Ellis’ second.

The judge said she believed Ellis had good intentions when he was first elected, but later became more concerned for his own interests.