Wisconsin Democratic Senate candidate facing serious felony charges

Milwaukee Alderwoman and Democratic Senate candidate Chantia Lewis is facing five felony charges, with local authorities alleging she embezzled over $20,000 from her own campaign funds.

Ms Lewis this week was formally charged with embezzlement, theft by fraud, misconduct in public office and two campaign finance crimes.

The alleged offences took place between April 2016 and June 2020

Earlier this year she had announced her intention to run as a Democratic candidate for Wisconsin, but her political future is now under a serious cloud.

The prominent local Democrat has vigorously denied the claims.

"We will make the necessary corrections. But make no mistake, I am innocent of any criminal wrongdoing," Ms Lewis said in the statement.

"As a first-time candidate in 2016, and like many first-time grassroot candidates, I self-funded much of my campaign.

"My campaign was run by my family and a team of amazing supporters.

"We did our very best to run a positive and compliant campaign.

“I am confident that once this is over, I will be absolved."

If convicted, Ms Lewis could face more than ten years in prison.