Closing Arguments Begin in Bribery Trial of Developer Accused of Paying Former Palm Springs Mayor

A local alert this evening from the courtroom in Banning: closing arguments have begun in the high-profile bribery trial involving former Palm Springs Mayor Steve Pougnet and real estate developer John Westman.

Westman is accused of offering Pougnet six-figure bribes in exchange for political support on major downtown Palm Springs development projects. After two weeks of testimony at the Banning Justice Center, the defense has rested its case, moving the trial into its final phase.

Westman faces nine counts of bribery of a public official and one count of conspiracy to commit a felony.

His former co-defendant, Steve Pougnet, accepted a plea agreement last month. He pleaded guilty to:

• Nine counts of bribery by a public official

• Eight counts of holding an illegal financial interest in public contracts

• One count of conspiracy

The case, closely watched by residents and public officials alike, centers on allegations of corruption tied to key redevelopment projects in the heart of Palm Springs.

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