At age 83, former State Rep. John Rogers has been sentenced to 13 months in federal prison for his role in a kickback scheme involving public funds intended for nonprofits. The former Birmingham Democrat, who resigned from the Alabama House of Representatives in March, also faces three years of supervised release and must repay $197,950 to the Jefferson County Community Service Fund.
U.S. District Judge Scott Coogler handed down the sentence Tuesday in Birmingham. Rogers, who pleaded guilty to conspiracy to commit mail and wire fraud and conspiracy to obstruct justice, has until Sept. 3 to report to prison. Coogler recommended a facility near Birmingham to allow Rogers to remain close to his two daughters.
The scheme involved Rogers directing approximately $400,000 to the Piper Davis Youth Baseball League, operated by former State Rep. Fred Plump, who then funneled half the money back to Rogers’ assistant, Varrie Johnson Kindall. Both Plump and Kindall have also been sentenced for their involvement.
During Rogers’ sentencing, Judge Coogler stated that Plump spent $200,000 on children in the baseball league, while “Rogers and Kindall spent it on themselves.”
“You did worse than him in the conduct,” Judge Coogler told Rogers. “You’re far more culpable than him.”
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Assistant U.S. Attorney George Martin used the sentencing as a warning to other lawmakers. “John Rogers has received his punishment,” Martin said. “You will get caught. You will go to jail.”
Rogers expressed remorse during his sentencing, stating, “I’m sorry about the whole escapade and I take full responsibility. It hurts me to no end.”
Rogers’ sentence marks the end of his long political career, which began in 1982. His downfall serves as a stark reminder of the severe consequences of corruption in public office.
Grayson Everett is the state and political editor for Yellowhammer News. You can follow him on X @Grayson270.
