More charges filed against suspended Homestead mayor

Steven Bateman charged with 7 election law violations

HOMESTEAD, Fla. ā€“ Suspended Homestead Mayor Steven Bateman surrendered Friday after he was charged with seven election law violations.

Bateman, 58, was accused of misusing campaign funds, said state attorney spokeswoman Terry Chavez. He pleaded not guilty and was released without bond.

Bateman was suspended in August after he was arrested on corruption charges. Prosecutors allege he used his elected position to land a secret consulting job with non-profit firm Community Health Care of South Florida Inc.

The election law violations aren't related to the corruption charges, said Chavez.

Bateman was first elected mayor of Homestead in 2009 and re-elected in 2011. He sought re-election this year, but finished third in a primary election last month, meaning he won't be in Tuesday's election.