LA JOYA – The La Joya housing authority vice chairwoman accused of corruption has pleaded not guilty.

Sylvia Valdez was taken into federal custody Monday morning.

She’s the La Joya housing authority vice-chairwoman, but received a public relations contract, which is in the center of this corruption charge.

Valdez is charged for converting to own or use property of another.

It happened sometime between June through November of last year.

According to FBI Spokesperson Michelle Lee, the charges stem from a joint investigation involving the bureau and the Department of Housing of Urban Development Office of the Inspector General.

According to the indictment, there are at least two other people involved.

A portion of it reads:

"Defendant gave, offered, and agreed to give cash to Person A intending to influence and reward Person B, an elected official for the city of La Joya, for their influence in granting a public relations contract to the defendant."

Valdez went before a magistrate judge Monday morning in McAllen for her initial appearance.

Her bond is set at $30,000.