The state's top federal prosecutor is opening up about the government's case against former Omaha City Councilman Vinny Palermo and two words, "no promises," are first and foremost. 

[View our full video report above]

Facing 20 years in prison on nine federal fraud, conspiracy, and corruption charges Palermo pleaded guilty last week to one count of conspiracy to commit wire fraud in exchange for 21 months behind bars.

Acting U.S. Attorney Susan Lehr responding by email to a series of questions from News Channel Nebraska.

Joe Jordan, NCN: “What promises did Mr. Palermo make to the government in exchange for the 21-month plea deal? 

U.S. Attorney Susan Lehr: “There were no promises or agreements made by the government to Mr. Palermo or from Mr. Palermo to the government other than what is in the plea agreement.”

Palermo, the first of four defendants in the case to admit to what the judge called a scheme, helping two of the three others, former Omaha Police Officers Rich Gonzalez and Johnny Palermo get their hands on turn back tax money and fireworks permits for the Latino Peace Officers Association and PACE, which works to keep inner city kids in sports and out of trouble.

 

Joe Jordan, NCN: “Do you see him flipping in this case?

Randy Paragas, Palermo’s Attorney: “Flipping?”

Joe Jordan: “Testifying against the others?”

Paragas: “Do I see that, I don't know, I don't know.”

 

Joe Jordan, NCN: “Will he be testifying against his three co-defendants, should they go to trial? 

U.S. Attorney Susan Lehr: “There are no agreements other than what’s in the plea agreement. We don’t comment on ongoing cases.”

As for those still questioning the 21-month deal:

U.S. Attorney Susan Lehr: "While the statutory minimum of his charge is 20 years imprisonment neither his involvement in the crime nor his criminal history would merit a maximum sentence. There are federal sentencing guidelines that are based in large part on white collar cases on the amount of loss for which a defendant is responsible and his criminal history. The 21-month sentence is within the sentencing range the government believes Mr. Palermo will fall."

Joe Jordan, NCN: “Is Mr. Palermo expected to supply the government with information possibly resulting in additional indictments and arrests?”

U.S. Attorney Susan Lehr: “We do not comment on ongoing cases.”

Joe Jordan, NCN: “Is the investigation complete or ongoing? 

U.S. Attorney Susan Lehr: The investigation into the cases in which Mr. Palermo is charged is complete.”

Palermo is scheduled back in federal court November 16 for his formal sentencing.