A former Bridgeport official pleaded guilty to a civil rights charge following federal election fraud accusations.

FBI officials say that Michael Defilippo falsified documents, forged signatures and committed theft during the 2017 and 2018 elections.

Officials say he owned rental properties and illegally submitted ballots in the name of some of his tenants.

DeFilippo pleaded guilty to deprivation of rights under color of law, for depriving his tenants of their right to vote.

He faces a maximum term of imprisonment of one year and a fine of up to $100,000, according to officials.

Defilippo is out on bond pending sentencing.