Two ex New York City Fire Department chiefs charged with bribery

Two former high-ranking New York City Fire Department chiefs, Anthony Saccavino and Brian Cordasco, were indicted by federal prosecutors for allegedly pocketing bribes to expedite fire safety reviews. The charges come amid a broader federal investigation into Mayor Eric Adams’ administration, with Police Commissioner Edward Caban resigning last week over a separate nightclub enforcement probe. Saccavino and Cordasco, who had over 50 years combined experience at the FDNY, are accused of taking over $190,000 in bribes as part of a scheme while running the Bureau of Fire Prevention. The chiefs allegedly partnered with a retired firefighter to prioritize inspections for his clients in exchange for a cut of the profits. The indictment also reveals they misled subordinates within the department by blaming the prioritization on the mayor’s office or other officials. The scheme involved 30 projects and ended when they had a falling out with their co-conspirator last year. Both Saccavino and Cordasco have retired from the FDNY and are facing charges including conspiracy to solicit and receive a bribe, solicitation and receipt of a bribe, and making false statements to federal agents. The indictment is part of a broader federal investigation into corruption within Adams’ administration, with FBI raids conducted at the homes of top officials. Although Adams has not been accused of any wrongdoing, the U.S. Attorney’s office emphasized that their fight against public corruption is ongoing. Fire Commissioner Robert Tucker stated that the department will fully cooperate with ongoing investigations and emphasized the importance of honesty and ethics within the FDNY.

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