MIAMI, Aug 12: A high-power lobbyist with close ties to a top Republican in the US Congress was indicted by a US grand jury Thursday on charges stemming from an alleged fraudulent real estate deal.

US Attorney Alexander Acosta said in a statement that Abramoff and another defendant, businessman Adam Kidan had been indicted by the panel on six separate charges, including wire fraud, and conspiracy to commit wire fraud and mail fraud. Each of the counts carries a maximum penalty of five years in prison and a 250,000 dollar fine.

“Preserving the integrity of our financial system is a top priority of the Department of Justice. Today’s announcement highlights our efforts ... to vigorously prosecute corporate fraud and related criminal activities,” Acosta said in his statement.

In addition, prosecutors demanded Abramoff and Kidan forfeit some 60 million dollars — the amount allegedly swindled from lenders in the September 2000 deal to finance the purchase of SunCruz Casinos in Florida.

The pair allegedly failed to transfer funds as promised to the bank account of the individual selling the casino, and as part of a loan application during the deal, provided forged financial statements.

Abramoff came into disrepute last year for alleged shady lobbying practices in his dealings with the Mississippi Band of Choctaw Indians, whom h is accused of bilking of tens of millions of dollars.

Along with an associate, Michael Scanlon, Abramoff is accused of issuing questionable invoices, diverting charitable contributions and padding expenses.

The Indian tribes, who own and operate gambling casinos, paid more than 66 million dollars to the pair for help in dealing with local and federal regulators.—AFP