"Our superintendent deserves the same constitutional protections afforded to every American," board members said, noting that Cole is presumed innocent unless proven guilty in court. In a statement released after the indictment, however, Cole strongly rejected the allegations, describing the case as a "miscarriage of justice." Prosecutors allege Cole participated in two conspiracies involving public bribery and money laundering while serving in public office. The charges do not automatically remove Cole from office, and no vote has been scheduled to suspend or terminate his employment. Until then, Cole remains superintendent while the case moves through the judicial system.