Colorado Springs Mayor Yemi Mobolade is under pressure from local officials to clarify his ties to Derrick Bernard, who was indicted for staging a hate crime during Mobolade’s mayoral campaign.
Bernard, who is black, scrawled a racial slur on a campaign sign and set a cross on fire in an incident described as a hoax to boost Mobolade’s candidacy.
The indictment revealed Bernard communicated with Mobolade about the hoax, including a message on the day of the incident promising his victory.
Despite initially denying contact with Bernard in two FBI interviews, Mobolade later stated he could not recall specifics.
The Department of Justice (DOJ) declined to prosecute him, citing political and racial considerations.
In a statement to the Colorado Springs Gazette, Mobolade rejected the allegations without directly disputing the details. “My family and I are victims of a hate crime… I had no knowledge, warning, or involvement in this reprehensible act,” he said, adding that politically motivated websites spread misinformation.
City Councilman Dave Donelson and County Commissioner Longinos Gonzalez Jr. have called for transparency. Donelson asked, “Did he lie to the FBI in those two interviews?” Mobolade’s office dismissed the claims as “unfounded,” emphasizing respect for the ongoing investigation.
Former prosecutor George Brauchler criticized Mobolade in a Gazette op-ed, saying, “Lying to the FBI is a serious, go-to-prison crime.” He questioned Mobolade’s refusal to provide a clear denial, suggesting it raises further suspicion. Brauchler argued that the DOJ’s handling of the case undermines public trust.
The controversy deepened when reports revealed Bernard messaged Mobolade on election night to take credit for the win and later sought favors in return.
Calls for the mayor to address these allegations continue to mount, as local leaders and residents demand accountability.
