Charges against 6 NY politicians in alleged plot
Apr 2, 2013, 8:45 PM
(AP) – Suspects and federal charges in a corruption case against six New York political leaders:
State Sen. Malcolm Smith
Smith, a 56-year-old Democrat, is charged with fraud and bribery conspiracy, accused of trying to buy his way into the New York City mayoral race as a Republican.
First elected to the Senate from Queens in 2000, the former Senate Democratic leader joined a breakaway group of Democrats in December to form a majority coalition with Senate Republicans. He was stripped of his committee and leadership positions Tuesday. He is a former aide to Floyd Flake, an influential pastor and former congressman. A Fordham graduate with an MBA from Adelphi, Smith formed a company to develop housing in Queens.
New York City Councilmember Dan Halloran
Halloran, 42, is charged with fraud and bribery conspiracy, accused of negotiating bribes for Smith and taking a share. First elected in 2009, the Queens Republican, attorney and former New York City police officer ran for Congress in 2012, losing to Democrat Grace Meng.
Bronx County Republican Party Chairman Joseph Savino
Savino, 45, is charged with fraud and bribery conspiracy, accused of accepting bribes to help Smith run. His duties include endorsing candidates for public office.
Queens County Republican Party Vice Chairman Vincent Tabone
Tabone, 46, is charged with fraud and bribery conspiracy, accused of accepting bribes to help Smith run. His duties include endorsing candidates for public office.
Spring Valley Mayor Noramie Jasmin
Jasmin, 49, is charged with fraud, accused of accepting a share of a real estate project in return for approving it. She took office in December 2009.
Spring Valley Deputy Mayor Joseph Desmaret
Desmaret, 55, is charged with fraud, accused of accepting money for approving a real estate project. He took office in December 2009.
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