Wicker associate and former Mississippi USDA rural development director indicted

Nick Walters was indicted by a federal grand jury for allegedly having a personal interest in a loan he was trying to secure for Natchez Regional Medical Center while serving as a USDA rural development director for Mississippi, and for lying to federal authorities about his involvement. He has previously worked in the political campaigns of Trent Lott, Kirk Fordice and Roger Wicker.

Walters served as director until August 4, 2006 when he resigned to enter investment banking. The charges allege that Walters worked both sides of the fence by using his capacity as director to secure the loan for the Natchez Regional Medical Center, while being on the payroll of the company representing the publicly owned hospital.

From the Clarion Ledger:

The indictment, handed down last Tuesday, alleges Walters violated a federal law that prohibits a former government employee from switching sides and representing a private party in a matter in which he participated “personally and substantially” while working for the government.

The indictment also accuses Walters of violating a federal law that prohibits an officer or employee from taking part as a government official in any matter in which he has a financial interest.

Finally, the government contends Walters lied when he told a senior USDA official that he was leaving his job and going to work in private business and had no interest in Natchez Regional Medical Center, when he had, in fact, signed an employment contract with Kidwell and Co., an investment banking company with offices in Brentwood, Tenn., and Jackson, Miss.