High-Ranking NYC Fire Officials Arrested Bribery Scandal

Two former New York City Fire Department chiefs face serious charges of bribery and corruption, potentially implicating Mayor Eric Adams’ administration in wider federal probes.

At a Glance

Anthony Saccavino and Brian Cordasco, ex-FDNY chiefs, arrested for bribery and corruption.
Charges involve accepting bribes to fast-track fire safety approvals from 2021 to 2023.
Both pleaded not guilty and were released on $250,000 bail each.
Arrests linked to ongoing federal investigations involving Mayor Eric Adams’ administration.

Former FDNY Chiefs Arrested in Corruption Scandal

In a shocking turn of events, two former high-ranking New York City Fire Department chiefs, Anthony Saccavino and Brian Cordasco, were arrested on charges of bribery, corruption, and making false statements. The alleged misconduct occurred between 2021 and 2023, during which time the officials are accused of exploiting their positions within the Bureau of Fire Prevention to unjustly influence fire safety operations in exchange for substantial bribes.

The arrests are part of a broader federal investigation that has cast a shadow over Mayor Eric Adams’ administration. Both Saccavino and Cordasco were released on $250,000 bail after pleading not guilty to the charges. The case has raised serious questions about the integrity of fire safety procedures in New York City and the potential for widespread corruption within the city government.

Two former FDNY chiefs were in custody Monday on charges that they solicited tens of thousands of dollars in bribes before ensuring the department's fire-safety division gave preferential treatment to some individuals and companies. https://t.co/1ByqF15kld

— FOX 5 NY (@fox5ny) September 17, 2024

The Alleged Scheme

According to prosecutors, Saccavino and Cordasco abused their authority to create a “VIP lane” for faster service that could only be accessed through bribes. They allegedly collaborated with Henry Santiago Jr., a retired firefighter running an unsanctioned “expediting” business, to collect over $190,000 in bribes. The scheme reportedly involved fast-tracking fire safety approvals and inspections for approximately 30 projects across New York City.

“As alleged, Anthony Saccavino and Brian Cordasco abused their authority as chiefs of the FDNY’s Bureau of Fire Prevention to line their pockets in a pay-to-play bribery scheme,” U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of New York Damian Williams said in a news release. “By allegedly selling priority access to the BFP’s services, which are vital to preventing New York City businesses and homes from fire-related incidents, Saccavino and Cordasco undermined the public trust and put their own greed above the interests of the taxpayers they swore to serve. This Office and our partners at the [Department of Investigation] and FBI will continue to ensure that City officials who put themselves over the public interest will be held accountable,” Williams added.

The indictment also mentions a controversial “City Hall List” allegedly used to prioritize certain projects, which Mayor Adams has denied exists. However, a former fire chief’s lawsuit claimed the list expanded under Adams’ administration to favor politically connected developers.

Implications for City Administration

The arrests of Saccavino and Cordasco come at a time when Mayor Eric Adams’ administration is already under scrutiny. Recent resignations, including Adams’ top legal adviser and the head of the NYPD, have fueled speculation about the depth of the ongoing federal investigations. The timing of these arrests aligns with probes into potential illegal contributions related to fire safety inspections, including an examination of rapid inspections at the Turkish consulate.

“They damaged the trust of the overwhelming majority of New York City firefighters who are honest, hardworking public servants who dedicate their lives to protecting our communities, often putting themselves in harm’s way to ensure our safety,” James E. Dennehy, who is the assistant director in charge of the New York Field Office of the FBI, said. “These men and women embody the highest standards of integrity and service. The actions of a few should not overshadow the dedication and bravery of the many who wear the badge with pride and honor.”

Fire Commissioner Robert Tucker has stated that the department will “fully cooperate” with the ongoing investigation, emphasizing the importance of ethical behavior within the FDNY. The case underscores the need for increased oversight and transparency in city operations, particularly in departments crucial to public safety.

As the legal proceedings unfold, New Yorkers are left to question the extent of corruption within their city’s government and the potential impact on public safety. The arrests of these former FDNY chiefs serve as a stark reminder of the ongoing challenges facing urban administrations in maintaining integrity and public trust.