COLUMBIA (WACH) -- Damon McDuffie, 34, made his first court appearance Thursday after being indicted on federal charges two weeks ago.
Prosecutors say McDuffie used his job at the City of Columbia Parks and Recreation Department to solicit and receive illegal payments from contractors seeking business with the city.
McDuffie pled not guilty to two counts of interference with commerce by threats or violence.
He declined to comment on the charges.
Currently, McDuffie is suspended without pay, pending the outcome of the case.
A trial date has not yet been set. If convicted, McDuffie could receive up to 20 years in prison and a $250,000 fine for each count.
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