The Mendelsohn Ertel Law Group Secures Not Guilty Verdict in High-Profile Federal Public Corruption Trial

The attorneys at Mendelsohn Ertel Law Group are proud to announce a significant trial victory following a federal jury's verdict in a closely watched public corruption case. 

On July 29, 2026, a federal jury in Atlanta returned not guilty verdicts on multiple charges against Stephanie R. Lindsey, a licensed real estate broker in Newton County, and Marcello C. Banes, Chairman of the Newton County Board of Commissioners. 

Brian Mendelsohn, who represented Ms. Lindsey throughout the case, maintained from the outset that the allegations were unsupported by the evidence. 

"We had vigorously maintained from the beginning that not only were these two prominent and respected Newton County residents not guilty of any fraud or theft of honest services, but the federal prosecutors office should have never considered filing any actions against her. We were able to show the jury that there was no evidence of any unethical or illegal actions. This was a case of two friends who followed the rules, and the evidence proved that." 

This outcome reflects the importance of a thorough defense, careful preparation, and a commitment to ensuring every client receives a vigorous and fair representation in court. 

Mendelsohn Ertel Law Group is honored to have achieved this result and remains committed to defending individuals facing complex state and federal criminal matters throughout Georgia. 

Click HERE to read coverage of the verdict from The Covington News. 

To learn more about our criminal defense practice or to speak with an attorney, contact us today!