For more than two decades, Sheryl Williams Stapleton was a powerful force in New Mexico politics. She was the first African American woman elected to the state Legislature, served as Democratic House Majority Floor Leader, and sponsored hundreds of pieces of legislation, many focused on education. But in 2021, her political career came crashing down. Federal investigators accused Stapleton of using her positions at Albuquerque Public Schools and in the Legislature to steer $1.15 million in taxpayer-funded contracts meant for Albuquerque students, for her personal use. After years of investigation and legal delays, the case finally went to trial in federal court. Stapleton and her co-conspirator, Joseph Johnson, were convicted of fraud, money laundering, and bribery. KRQE reporter Bela Olague was in the courtroom nearly every day, and joins Chris and Gabby to unpack the evidence and arguments that ultimately led to federal convictions. It's a closer look at the rise and fall of one of New Mexico's most notable political figures.

• Watch Larry Barker's 2021 investigation

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