Natalie Wisneski, former chief operating officer of the Fiesta Bowl, was indicted on nine counts by a federal grand jury on Tuesday for infractions related to campaign contributions, according to the Sports Network. Among other charges, Wisneski has been accused of making campaign contributions in another's name and filing false tax returns.
Wisneski is alleged to have solicited campaign contributions from lower-level employees at the Fiesta Bowl for local, state and federal elections, only to reimburse those employees later with Fiesta Bowl funds. She is believed to have made contributions to 25 different political figures and entities, including U.S. Senators John McCain and Jon Kyl, Arizoan Governer Jam Brewer, Arizona Secretary of State Ken Bennett, former U.S. representative Harry Mitchell and former Scottsdale mayor Mary Manross.
Wisneski faces a possible sentence of five years and/or a $250,000 fine for conspiracy and false statements. Charges of filing false tax returns could draw a maximum sentence of up to three years and/or a $250,000 fine.
The former Fiesta Bowl official also could face consequences for false campaign contributions. Wisneski could be charged with a felony punishable by up two years and/or a $250,000 fine for contributing over $10,000 in a single year using the name of other people. If Wisneski turns out to have contributed between $2,000 and $10,000 instead, her punishment would reduce in severity to a maximum of one year and/or a $100,000 fine.
The Fiesta Bowl is cooperating with federal officials on further investigation into Wisneski's case. Wisneski has been summoned to appear for arraignment on Nov. 30th.