John Jenrette, a former United States Representative from South Carolina, passed away on July 16, 2021, at the age of 83. Jenrette was known for his involvement in the Abscam scandal, which led to his imprisonment in the 1980s.
Born on May 9, 1938, in Charleston, South Carolina, Jenrette attended the University of South Carolina and later earned a law degree from the University of South Carolina School of Law. He served in the United States Army from 1961 to 1963 and then worked as a lawyer before entering politics.
Jenrette was elected to the United States House of Representatives in 1974 as a Democrat, representing South Carolina’s Sixth Congressional District. He served in Congress until 1980 when he was caught up in the Abscam scandal.
Abscam was an FBI sting operation that targeted corrupt politicians. Undercover agents posed as wealthy Arab businessmen offering bribes to politicians in exchange for political favors. Jenrette was caught on tape accepting a $50,000 bribe from an undercover agent posing as an Arab sheikh.
Jenrette was indicted on charges of bribery and conspiracy in 1980 and was convicted in 1981. He was sentenced to two years in prison and served time at the Federal Correctional Institution in Butner, North Carolina.
After his release from prison, Jenrette moved to Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, and worked as a real estate developer. He also wrote a book about his experiences in politics and prison called “The Cover-Up: A Congressman’s Pursuit of Truth and Justice.”
Jenrette’s involvement in the Abscam scandal tarnished his reputation and ended his political career. However, he remained active in public life and continued to speak out on political issues. In recent years, he had been battling cancer.
Jenrette’s passing marks the end of a controversial and eventful life. While his involvement in the Abscam scandal will always be a part of his legacy, he will also be remembered for his service to his constituents and his efforts to promote transparency and accountability in government.
