Mon Sep 16 15:12:00 UTC 2024: ## Two Former FDNY Chiefs Arrested for Taking Bribes to Fast-Track Fire Safety Approvals

**New York, NY** – Two former high-ranking Fire Department of New York (FDNY) chiefs have been arrested and charged with accepting bribes in exchange for expediting fire alarm system approvals for buildings.

Anthony Saccavino, 59, and Brian Cordasco, 49, served as the top two chiefs in the FDNY’s Bureau of Fire Prevention until their retirements earlier this year. According to a federal indictment unsealed on Monday, they worked with a retired firefighter, Henry Santiago Jr., to expedite inspections and reviews in exchange for cash payments.

The alleged scheme, spanning from 2021 to 2023, involved the creation of a “VIP lane” for faster service, which could only be accessed through bribes. Prosecutors allege that Saccavino and Cordasco lied to the FBI about their involvement.

“They allegedly created a VIP lane for faster service that could only be accessed through bribes,” said U.S. Attorney Damian Williams. “That’s classic pay-to-play corruption, and it will not be tolerated by this office.”

The indictment further details how the chiefs allegedly prioritized projects on a list maintained by the Mayor’s office, known as the “City Hall list,” even though the list was intended for non-corrupt expedited services.

The arrest of the two chiefs comes at a time when the FDNY and Mayor Eric Adams are already facing scrutiny over allegations of preferential treatment for developers and campaign donors in fire safety inspections.

Adams, who is not mentioned in the indictment, denied maintaining a “City Hall list” and emphasized that the alleged illegal activities took place before he became mayor.

Saccavino and Cordasco each face 55 years in prison if convicted on all charges.

The case underscores concerns about corruption within the city’s government and raises questions about transparency and fairness in the approval process for fire safety systems. It also highlights the need for greater oversight and accountability within the FDNY.

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