MEMPHIS, Tenn. (WMC) - Shelby County Commissioner Edmund Ford Jr., who was placed on paid leave this year following a seven-count federal indictment, is appealing one of his charges.

Court records show that Ford filed a motion to dismiss Count 1 of his indictment on Thursday. He alleges that his charge for bribery involving federal programs is “unconstitutionally vague” and “duplicitous.”

Ford argues that the allegations, as written, fail to specify an offense.

“If not dismissed, the indictment does contain surplusage,” the motion reads.

Ford is also charged with six counts of attempting to evade taxes. His trial date is set for Jan. 20, 2026.

Ford’s appeal can be read in full here.

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