Former Assemblyman Mims Hackett Jr. pleaded guilty to federal corruption charges and gave up his post as the mayor of Orange Tuesday.

Hackett had been charged with taking a $5,000 bribe to steer a city contract to an insurance broker.

"They wanted me to influence an official to try and get insurance for the city," Hackett told the court. "I accepted $5,000 in exchange for my continued support."

The 66-year-old Hackett was among 12 people, including 11 public officials, arrested last fall on federal bribery charges. Due to the guilty plea, he is no longer allowed to hold public office.

The Democrat resigned from the Assembly days after his arrest. His mayoral term was set to expire on July 1.

Hackett also pleaded guilty in state court to an official misconduct charge. He allegedly billed the city for expenses he never incurred.

Hackett will serve at least 18 months in prison.

Council President Lisa Perkins now takes over as the mayor of Orange and will serve out the rest of Hackett's term. Eldridge Hawkins Jr. was elected mayor earlier this month and will take the oath of office in July.