Atlanta corruption probe: Bickers makes first court appearance on brib

In handcuffs and leg irons, The Rev. Mitzi Bickers made her first appearance in federal court Thursday to face charges that she took $2 million in bribes to steer city of Atlanta contracts to at least two contractors from 2010 to 2015.

Bickers pleaded not guilty to the 11-count indictment and answered yes or no questions from U.S. Magistrate Court Judge Russell Vineyard. She was scheduled to be released on a $50,000 appearance bond later today. Her attorney, Richard Hendrix, declined comment following the hearing at the Richard B. Russell Federal Building.

Prosecutors accused the former city of Atlanta human services director of taking money from contractors to help them win city contracts and spending the money on a lavish lifestyle that included: a $775,000 home in Jonesboro; a $46,000 Denali luxury SUV; $45,000 worth of waverunner jet skis; and vacations to Aruba, Disney resorts and on Carnival cruise lines.

Atlanta corruption probe: Bickers makes first court appearance on brib