Randy "Duke" Cunningham

In November 2005, former Rep. Randy 'Duke' Cunningham (R-CA) pleaded guilty to federal charges of conspiracy to commit bribery, honest services fraud, wire fraud, and tax evasion. Cunningham admitted accepting at least $2.4 million in bribes — including a yacht, a Rolls-Royce, antiques, homes, and cash — from defense contractors in exchange for steering government contracts to their companies. The Washington Post described it as 'a corruption scheme unmatched in the annals of Congress.' In March 2006, he was sentenced to 8 years and 4 months in federal prison — at the time one of the longest sentences ever imposed on a former member of Congress.

• Washington Post — Congressman (Randy Cunningham) admits taking bribes, resigns (2005)