Former NYC Fire Department Officials Facing Serious Charges

Two former NYC fire department officials, Anthony Saccavino and Brian Cordasco, are facing charges related to bribery, corruption, and making false statements.

At a Glance

Two former FDNY chiefs were indicted on bribery and corruption charges.
They allegedly provided preferential treatment for fire safety approvals in exchange for bribes.
Charges include conspiracy, honest services wire fraud, and making false statements.
Both pleaded not guilty, retired earlier this year, and were released on $250,000 bail.
The indictment covers activities from 2021 to 2023, with over $190,000 in bribes allegedly accepted.

Bribery and Corruption Charges Filed

Two retired FDNY officials, Anthony Saccavino and Brian Cordasco, are embroiled in a serious legal battle after being indicted on multiple charges of bribery, corruption, and false statements. According to the indictment, the two high-ranking officials exploited their positions to provide preferential treatment for fire safety approvals and inspections in exchange for substantial bribes.

From 2021 to 2023, Saccavino and Cordasco allegedly orchestrated a scheme that solicited more than $190,000 in bribes from clients through Henry Santiago, Jr., a retired firefighter acting as an expediter. This scheme reportedly took advantage of the backlog in inspections due to the 2020 health emergency, creating a privileged “VIP lane” for expedited service. The Southern District of New York filed charges including conspiracy to solicit and receive a bribe, honest services wire fraud, and making false statements.

Statements From Officials

In a federal court hearing, both Saccavino and Cordasco pleaded not guilty to the charges. Their lawyers maintained their innocence, pointing out their long and commendable service records, including Saccavino’s role as a 9/11 first responder. Despite these assertions, the U.S. Attorney Damian Williams emphasized that the actions of the accused compromised public safety and eroded the public’s trust in the FDNY.

Williams said in a statement, “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.”

Fire Commissioner Robert Tucker announced the department’s commitment to maintaining ethical standards and vowed full cooperation with the ongoing investigation: “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. Keeping New Yorkers safe remains our top priority.”

FBI Assistant Director in Charge James E. Dennehy emphasized the importance of adhering to ethical standards, stating, “The FDNY officials charged today allegedly took bribes to expedite the inspection process, undermining the fairness and integrity that are fundamental to our system. By doing so, they not only compromised public safety but also eroded the public’s trust in those who are sworn to protect us.”

Two retired FDNY chiefs, Anthony Saccavino & Brian Cordasco arrested Monday for allegedly accepting over $190,000 in bribes to expedite safety inspections. They face charges of bribery, corruption & making false statements in connection with corruption probe. Alleged bribes took… pic.twitter.com/usODNuxPnZ

— NYScanner (@nyscanner) September 16, 2024

Implications for New York City Leadership

These indictments have heightened scrutiny of New York City’s leadership, given that the actions are part of broader federal investigations involving Mayor Eric Adams’ administration. Although the charges against Saccavino and Cordasco are not directly linked to these wider probes, they do form part of an increasing scrutiny of high-ranking officials. Notably, both men were released on $250,000 bail following their plea.

As the wheels of justice turn, this case serves as a sobering reminder of the need for unwavering integrity in public service.