Islam apologized to the court, the African American community, and Gamble. “It’s been seven years since I even spoke with him. Kenny, I’m sorry,” he said, tearfully.
Defense and Prosecution Arguments
Islam’s attorney, David M. Laigaie of Eckert Seamans Cherin & Mellott LLC, urged leniency, highlighting Islam’s community contributions and his role as a father of ten, most of whom have earned college degrees. Laigaie argued that Islam likely has only 12 more years to live due to his medical conditions.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Mark B. Dubnoff countered, reminding the court of Islam’s past criminal record, including a five-year prison sentence for bank robbery in his teens. Dubnoff emphasized the gravity of Islam’s theft from school children to fund his luxurious lifestyle, labeling him an “unreformed criminal.”
Details of the Embezzlement Scheme
Prosecutors alleged that Dawan facilitated Islam’s embezzlement, enabling inflated bonuses and funding trips to Orlando and Jamaica. The nonprofit’s funds were also used for expensive flower arrangements and meals. Additionally, they alleged that Universal paid a disguised $18,000 bribe to Milwaukee school board director Michael Bonds to support Islam’s effort to establish a third charter school in the city. Bonds pled guilty to bribery charges in 2019.
