Providence council president charged with embezzlement

PROVIDENCE (AP) — The president of the Providence City Council has been charged with embezzlement and misusing campaign finance funds.

Luis Aponte pleaded not guilty to the felony charges Wednesday after being indicted by a statewide grand jury. His lawyer didn't comment after the arraignment.

The state Board of Elections last year forwarded a report about Aponte to Attorney General Peter Kilmartin's office. It said it had reason to believe Aponte and his campaign treasurer violated state campaign finance law.

Kilmartin's office declined comment Wednesday.

Providence Mayor Jorge Elorza has called on Aponte to resign.

Aponte, a Democrat, is the second council member to be indicted in a year. Voters in Councilman Kevin Jackson's ward recalled him from office last week after he was indicted on embezzlement charges. Jackson has maintained his innocence.