FBI raids La. congressman's homes

WASHINGTON, Aug. 4 (UPI) -- Houses owned by Rep. William Jefferson, D-La., have been searched by federal agents carrying out warrants related to "an ongoing criminal investigation."

Jefferson confirmed his homes in Washington and New Orleans, as well as his car in Washington, were searched Wednesday, The Washington Post reported.

In a statement issued Wednesday night, Jefferson said, "I do not know the extent or the precise nature of this investigation but I am cooperating fully with authorities."

The Post cited unnamed sources saying the investigation involved allegations that Jefferson used his influence as a member of Congress in business dealings.

A Justice Department spokesman told the newspaper, "There were search warrants executed today in connection with an ongoing criminal investigation" but refused to give details.

Jefferson is an eight-term congressman representing Louisiana's 2nd Congressional District. In 1990 he became the first African-American elected to Congress from Louisiana since Reconstruction.