Houston public works director announces resignation in wake of HCC trustee bribery case

HOUSTON – Houston Public Works and Engineering Director Karun Sreerama has announced his resignation.

Sreerama is holding a news conference Friday evening to talk about his decision following a bribery case involving Houston Community College Trustee Chris Oliver.

Oliver pleaded guilty in a federal case, admitting he accepted bribes in exchange for the promise of official actions related to his duties as a member of the HCC Board of Trustees.

In court documents, Sreerama was considered the victim of Oliver's alleged bribery attempts.

Sreerama was placed on administrative leave July 12.

Houston Mayor Sylvester Turner released a statement that read, "Karun Sreerama has accomplished much in Houston as a businessman and involved citizen. I am sure he will continue to be an asset to our community. However he and I have agreed that it would be best for the city for him to step down as director of the city Public Works and Engineering Department."

WATCH: Public works director announces resignation

Turner said Carol Haddock will serve as acting director until a new director is named.

A news release from the college said Oliver was convicted on the federal charges after entering a guilty plea March 15. He will remain out of jail on bond until sentencing, which is scheduled for Aug. 28.

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