3 Florida politicians in corruption case

FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla., Sept. 24 (UPI) -- Three Florida politicians have been arrested in a widespread Broward County corruption investigation, federal officials say.

County Commissioner Josephus Eggelletion Jr., School Board member Beverly Gallagher and former Miramar Commissioner Fitzroy Salesman were charged in Fort Lauderdale, Fla., Wednesday after a lengthy investigation into a variety of charges.

Gallagher, 51, was accused of fraud, extortion and bribery, Eggelletion, 60, was charged with fraud and money laundering and Salesman, 52, faced fraud, extortion and bribery charges, the South Florida Sun Sentinel reported.

The alleged bribes and payoffs were said to be relatively small, ranging from $5,840 to at least $23,300.

More arrests were expected.

Gov. Charlie Crist suspended Gallagher and Eggleston, pending outcome of the charges.