Two former New York City Fire Department chiefs have been arrested on charges of bribery and corruption, raising questions about the integrity of the city’s fire safety protocols.
At a Glance
- Anthony Saccavino and Brian Cordasco, former FDNY chiefs, arrested for alleged bribery scheme
- The scheme, running from 2021 to 2023, involved fast-tracking fire safety approvals for bribes
- Both chiefs pleaded not guilty and were released on $250,000 bail each
- Arrests are part of ongoing federal investigations into Mayor Eric Adams’ administration
Former FDNY Chiefs Accused of Corruption
In a shocking development that has rocked New York City’s Fire Department, two former high-ranking chiefs have been apprehended on charges of bribery, corruption, and making false statements. Anthony Saccavino and Brian Cordasco, who previously served as chiefs of the Bureau of Fire Prevention, are accused of orchestrating a pay-to-play scheme that compromised the integrity of fire safety inspections across the city.
The indictment alleges that between 2021 and 2023, Saccavino and Cordasco abused their authority to create a “VIP lane” for faster fire safety approvals, accessible only through bribes. This scheme reportedly spanned 30 projects across New York City, with the chiefs allegedly pocketing over $190,000 in illicit payments.
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 Scheme Unraveled
According to prosecutors, the former chiefs collaborated with Henry Santiago Jr., a retired firefighter running an unsanctioned “expediting” business. Santiago allegedly facilitated the fast-tracking of projects in exchange for fees, then made bribe payments to Saccavino and Cordasco. The scheme exploited a backlog in fire safety inspections, allowing certain projects to bypass normal procedures for a price.
“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.
Both Saccavino and Cordasco have pleaded not guilty to the charges and were released on $250,000 bail each. Their attorneys have vehemently defended their clients, with Saccavino’s lawyer describing him as “an American hero” and a 9/11 first responder.
Wider Implications for NYC Administration
These arrests come amid broader federal probes into Mayor Eric Adams’ administration, including investigations into potential illegal contributions related to fire safety inspections. The scandal has already led to high-profile resignations, including Adams’ top legal adviser and the head of the NYPD.
“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,” Tucker said.
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 grew under Adams’ administration to favor politically connected developers.
Impact on Public Trust and Safety
This scandal strikes at the heart of public safety and trust in New York City. The FBI’s James E. Dennehy emphasized the damage done to the reputation of honest firefighters, stating, “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.”
As the investigation continues, questions remain about the extent of the corruption and its impact on fire safety standards across the city. The FDNY and city officials face the daunting task of restoring public confidence in the integrity of fire safety protocols and the department’s leadership.
