Ralph Infante, who served as mayor of Niles for 24 years, pleaded not guilty Monday at his arraignment on a 56 count criminal indictment.    

The charges against the former mayor include engaging in a pattern of corrupt activities, theft in office, money laundering, bribery, tampering with records, gambling, and operating a gambling house.  

Infante's wife, Judy, also entered not guilty pleas to charges of engaging in corrupt activities, tampering with records, and theft.

The indictment alleges that the criminal activity covered all the years Infante served as mayor of Niles. It also alleges that he operated an illegal gambling enterprise out of his business, the ITAM #39 Club in Girard. 

Also appearing for arraignment was Scott Shaffer of Niles, a former city employee who is charged with theft in office. 

Visiting Judge Patricia Cosgrove of Summit County released all three defendants on personal recognizance bond.  She did order that they surrender their passports within 24 hours and to not leave the state of Ohio without the courts permission.

The judge also instructed all parties on both sides not to discuss the case with any media.  

Attorneys for the prosecution and defense have until March 20, 2017 to file any final motions with the court.  

A trial date is set for April 24, 2017.