Federal judge denies 60-day continuance for former Rep. Corrine Brown in conspiracy, fraud trial

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. — A judge on Thursday afternoon denied a 60-day continuance for former Florida U.S. Rep. Corrine Brown. Her April trial date will remain as scheduled.

Brown faces charges of conspiracy and fraud.

Her lawyer asked for extra time to investigate former Chief of Staff Ronnie Simmons further and to review Simmons' plea and interview.

Brown's former chief of staff pleaded guilty Wednesday to fraud and theft charges.

After court Thursday Brown said Simmons was like a son to her and she’s hurt by his plea.

“I don’t do sign language, but what is the sign language to show that you got a broken heart because I have one.”

Prosecutors said Simmons and Brown used a charity called One Door Education to solicit thousands of dollars' worth of donations.

They say Brown's political connections raised more than $800,000, but Simmons admitted Wednesday that they only handed out 2 scholarships that totaled $1,200.

Brown’s attorney, James Smith, gave a brief statement after the hearing.

“My client was very shocked and sad to hear about Ronnie Simmons decision to plead guilty yesterday,” he said.

Smith told a judge they were relying on Simmons testimony for their defense.

He made it clear that Brown will not plead guilty.

Brown’s next court appearance is scheduled for April 5. Her trial is set to begin  the end of April.

Watch Action News Jax and follow @ActionNewsJax on Twitter for updates in the case. 

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