Palm Springs, CA
Palm Springs developer John Wessman has been found not guilty on all charges in a long-running public corruption case involving former Palm Springs Mayor Steve Pougnet. A jury on Monday acquitted Wessman, 86, of nine counts of bribery and one count of conspiracy, concluding a legal saga that has spanned nearly a decade.
Wessman represented by law firm Keker, Van Nest & Peters since 2017, was accused of paying over $200,000 to Pougnet between 2012 and 2014 in exchange for city support for a series of high-profile downtown redevelopment projects. These included the Kimpton Rowan Hotel, the Palm Springs Downtown Revitalization Project, and the headquarters of Wessman Development — projects that significantly reshaped the city’s modern core.
Throughout the trial, Wessman maintained his innocence, asserting he was unaware of any improper payments to Pougnet. He testified that the payments made were to co-defendant and fellow developer Richard Meaney for legitimate consulting services. His defense argued that Meaney acted independently and manipulated others to his own benefit.
The prosecution’s case relied heavily on testimony from Meaney, who had accepted a misdemeanor plea deal in exchange for probation. Meanwhile, Pougnet admitted guilt to more than 20 felony charges, including bribery, conflict of interest, and conspiracy. He is scheduled to be sentenced on July 2, while Meaney’s sentencing is set for July 28.
Wessman, once considered one of Palm Springs’ most influential developers, has now been legally cleared of wrongdoing in connection with the city’s redevelopment deals. The verdict marks a significant turn in a case that has highlighted the complexities and consequences of public-private partnerships in local government.
Rowan Hotel serves as a back drop for PS Love U sculpture.