Top Officials Face Federal Charges in Shocking NYC Investigation

Firefighter helmet and gear beside a fire truck.

Former New York City Fire Department chiefs, Anthony Saccavino and Brian Cordasco, have been arrested and charged with bribery, corruption, and making false statements.

At a Glance

Saccavino and Cordasco allegedly accepted over $190,000 in bribes from 2021 to 2023.
They used their authority to expedite fire-safety projects for personal gain.
They have pleaded not guilty and were released on $250,000 bail each.
The arrests are part of a broader federal investigation involving Mayor Eric Adams’s administration.
Fire Commissioner Tucker emphasized the department’s commitment to ethical behavior.

FDNY Chiefs Arrested in Bribery Scheme

Anthony Saccavino and Brian Cordasco, former chiefs of the New York City Fire Department’s Bureau of Fire Prevention, are accused of accepting bribes to expedite fire-safety inspections and approvals. A federal indictment revealed that the bribery occurred over two years, with the duo allegedly soliciting and accepting more than $190,000 in exchange for preferential treatment of 30 projects across New York City. Both men have pleaded not guilty and were released on $250,000 bail each.

The alleged scheme also implicates Henry Santiago Jr., a retired firefighter who ran an unsanctioned expediting business. Santiago is accused of facilitating the fast-tracking of projects by making bribe payments to Saccavino and Cordasco. The FBI highlighted the damage to public trust caused by these actions, emphasizing that the majority of firefighters uphold the highest standards of integrity.

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

Broader Federal Investigations

The arrests of Saccavino and Cordasco are part of a wider federal investigation into Mayor Eric Adams’s administration. Accusations include potential illegal contributions, rapid fire safety inspections at the Turkish consulate, and misuse of a “City Hall List” to prioritize projects. Mayor Adams has denied the existence of such a list, though allegations suggest that it was used to favor politically connected developers during his tenure and that of his predecessor, Bill de Blasio.

“Every member of the FDNY takes a sworn oath to conduct themselves honestly and ethically. Anything less will not be tolerated. The department will fully cooperate with an ongoing investigation,” Fire Commissioner Robert Tucker stated. “Keeping New Yorkers safe remains our top priority.”

Saccavino’s attorney, Joseph Caldarera, declared his client an American hero and a dedicated 9/11 first responder. Caldarera argued that Saccavino is innocent and committed to fighting the allegations. Similarly, Cordasco’s attorney claimed that his client’s years of service and dedication as a firefighter should be duly recognized.

Two former New York City Fire Department chiefs have been arrested on charges that they solicited tens of thousands of dollars in bribes to provide preferential treatment in the department's fire prevention bureau.
https://t.co/gMdYKzIR3S

— WKTV (@WKTV) September 16, 2024

Implications for Public Trust and Safety

U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of New York, Damian Williams, underscored the gravity of the charges, stating, “As alleged, Saccavino and Cordasco abused their authority… to line their pockets in a pay-to-play bribery scheme. 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, they undermined public trust.”

“They damaged the trust of the overwhelming majority of New York City firefighters who are honest, hardworking public servants,” said James E. Dennehy, the FBI’s assistant director of the New York Field Office. He emphasized that the actions of a few should not overshadow the dedication and bravery of many who wear the badge with pride and honor.