County Executive Rushern Baker: County Not Damaged By Jack Johnson's Guilty Plea

Prince George's County Executive Rushern L. Baker (D) said today he doesn't believe that any damage has been done to the county's reputation in light of a guilty plea made by his predecessor Jack Johnson.

Baker, addressing the Johnson charges directly for the first time in months, told a press conference in Upper Marlboro he will rely on his commitment to  transparency to move the county forward. He said he does not anticipate lasting damage to his administration.

“Today’s events remind us of our solemn responsibility as public officials to our constituents," he told reporters. "Our obligation at this point is to restore this community’s trust. The people of Prince George’s County are strong and resolute."

Baker has spent the first six months of his term trying to increase the county's tax base and convince federal and private sector developers to invest in Prince George's County.

(Click here to see Baker talk to Patch about taking over the county executive job after Jack Johnson's indictment).

He told reporters on Tuesday that despite Johnson's guilty plea on extortion charges he doesn't anticipate a setback to his campaign to lure developers to the county.

"I don't think any damage has been done to Prince George's County ....We addressed [corruption] from the very beginning. We've been open, honest, and transparent," he said.  "The news about the former county executive is by no means reflective of the people of Prince George’s County or employees of its government. By now you all should have observed we have made appropriate moves to improve our processes. We will aim high."

Baker said that upon coming into office that he was briefed on the Johnson case by the FBI.

Johnson's wife, Leslie Johnson (D-Mitchellville), serves on the county council despite being charged with conspiracy . Baker said the "legal process is going to effect" whether or not she keep her council seat.

The councilwoman was charged after a federal wiretap caught her destroying a $100,000 check from a developer last fall, court documents showed. She was seen trying to stuff more than $79,000 in her undergarments as federal agents arrived at the Johnsons' home in Mitchellville last November, the charges said. 

Johnson was not available for comment on her husband's plea after Tuesday's County Council meeting. Her arraignment in court was canceled earlier this month and it remains unclear if a new court date will be set.

The Prince George's County Council issued a statement in regard to the former county executive's plea.

"Obviously today is a sad day for Jack Johnson and his family. Today's plea marks another step in the judicial process and the eventual resolution of this matter," the statement reads. "The County Council, in scheduled session today, remains focused on working hard on issues facing our residents as we continue moving the county forward."