Evidence In Austin Lawmaker's Corruption Trial Includes $51K Bill For Psychic Consultations

AUSTIN, TX — Ahead of a corruption trial for Rep. Dawnna Dukes next month, prosecutors have outlined some of the evidence against her, including bills totaling more than $51,000 spent on an online psychic, according to a published report.

The Austin American-Statesman reported on a series of accusations outlined in court records ahead of the Oct. 16 corruption trial. Dukes faces trial for allegedly abusing her power, including giving a taxpayer-funded raise to a legislative aide to cover gas money for driving Dukes’ daughter to and from school, the newspaper noted.

According to the recent court filing ahead of the trial, Dukes paid an online psychic $51,348 from December 2014 to January 2016, nearly $1,000 per week, according to the newspaper account. In other so-called "extraneous acts" outlined by prosecutors:

• A charge she was absent for roll call 65 percent of the time during the 2017 legislative regular session, and 36 percent of the time in the special session.

• Switching phones when responding to a search warrant, providing investigators a cell phone without the identification number for the one requested

• Was impaired while performing legislative duties at the Capitol, including showing up late to a March 29 House Appropriations Committee hearing saying: "I know I'm talking a lot. I'm full of morphine, and will be headed out of here soon."

An attorney for Dukes declined to comment.

Related story: Embattled State Rep. From Austin Dawnna Dukes Announces 'Retirement'

>>> Read the full story at Austin American-Statesman

Photo of Rep. Dawnna Dukes via Texas House of Representatives