Most Talked-About Controversies Linked to P.G. Sittenfeld

A closer look at the most debated and controversial moments involving P.G. Sittenfeld.

Alexander Paul George Sittenfeld is an American politician who served on the Cincinnati City Council from 2011 to 2020. He was convicted on federal bribery and attempted extortion charges in 2022 following an FBI investigation. After his appeal was rejected, he received a pardon from President Donald Trump in May 2025.

Sections (5)

Full Timeline Early Life & Education Career & Achievements Challenges & Struggles Controversies & Scandals

2018: Involvement in Gang of Five

In 2018, P.G. Sittenfeld was identified as leading the "Gang of Five", a group of Cincinnati city council members communicating via secret text messages.

March 2019: Gang of Five agreed to turn over text messages

In March 2019, the Gang of Five, including P.G. Sittenfeld, agreed to release their text messages to settle a lawsuit filed by a local anti-tax activist.

April 2019: Introduced legislation opposing abortion ban

In April 2019, P.G. Sittenfeld introduced legislation requiring Cincinnati's law department to file an amicus curae brief opposing Ohio Senate Bill 23, which would ban abortions after the detection of a fetal heartbeat.

June 2019: Release of Text Messages Revealing Concerns About City Manager

In June 2019, additional text messages were released, revealing P.G. Sittenfeld's concerns regarding the city manager Harry Black, including discussions of his behavior and Sittenfeld's efforts to support him.

November 19, 2020: Arrest on Federal Corruption Charges

On November 19, 2020, P.G. Sittenfeld was arrested on federal charges of corruption and bribery and was suspended from his seat on the Cincinnati City Council.

July 8, 2022: Conviction on Bribery and Extortion Charges

On July 8, 2022, P.G. Sittenfeld was convicted on two felony counts of bribery and attempted extortion after a trial in U.S. District Court in Cincinnati.