Patrece Lee, former City of Houston Public Works employee accused of corruption, bilked the department out of nearly $720,000 in bribes

HOUSTON, Texas (KTRK) — A former city of Houston public works employee was arrested for allegedly accepting bribes and funneling money through multiple companies for nearly 10 months, according to charging documents.

The video above is from ABC13’s live broadcast channel.

Patrece Lee faces four charges of bribery and abuse of official power amounting to more than $300,000.

Documents indicate that between January 2023 and November 2023, Lee allegedly solicited bribes worth more than $320,000. The former employee also allegedly defrauded the department out of $400,000 by embezzling funds for herself through what is known as a “shell” company.

According to court records, Lee allegedly misused COH funds, water and water line repair services by recommending and demanding they pay Lu’s Construction’s bill. Charging documents say the business is owned by his brother.

From September 2023 to November 2023, documents indicate Lee agreed to accept payment from “Tiesha Coleman Houston” in cash for choosing her and recommending that she approve a work order as part of the justification for emergency purchase of the COH.

Lee is expected to appear in court Friday.

The arrest comes after the city of Houston hired several emergency contractors to deal with several water main breaks last year.

Lee is not the only person charged or accused in a scheme like this. Several other employees and contractors face criminal charges in connection with a water repair scam.

RELATED: ‘I feel your frustration’: Houston city officials address long wait times for water leak repairs

Houston Mayor John Whitmire and Harris County District Attorney Kim Ogg held a news conference Friday to announce new charges against the defendants.

ABC13 reporters Lileana Pearson and Miya Shay will have more developments on this case and the latest facts. Listen to the latest Eyewitness News newscasts starting at 3 p.m.