"The bribery scandal currently rocking San Bernardino County government doesn't involve bags of cash pocketed by elected officials or top aides.
Instead, it centers on campaign contributions, which are allowed in local races with few restrictions and in unlimited amounts.
So when do $400,000 in donations from developer Colonies Partners to a series of political action committees cross the line to become bribes?
Legal experts say when prosecutors can prove a clear intent and agreement between the two sides to receive something specific in return for the donations. In this case, prosecutors contend, the votes needed to approve a $102 million legal settlement with the company.
Establishing that intent, legal experts say, will be difficult but key to the prosecution's case."
S.B. County analysis: Proving campaign contribution are bribes no easy task
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