Bo was considered an influential and rising figure before his wife Gu Kailai became a suspect in the murder of Neil Heywood. After attempts to cover the scandal up by Bo and the CPC failed, Bo was removed and Gu received a suspended death sentence.
Heywood's death in August 2011 was initially attributed to alcohol poisoning until former Chongqing vice-mayor and police chief Wang Lijun arranged a meeting with the US consulate in Chengu. During the day-long meeting Wang revealed details of corruption and implicated Gu in Heywood's death. Wang now faces a 15-year prison term for defection, abuse of power, and taking bribes.
Bo's bribery and embezzlement are believed to amount to 25 million yuan, or $4 million. According to FOX, Bo's crimes could result in a prison sentence of 15 to 20 years.
Formerly the mayor of Dalian, governor of the Liaoning province and minister of commerce, Bo was known for a high-profile crackdown on crime, according to the BBC. He was considered flamboyant and charismatic and remains popular with some in Chongqing and throughout China.
