You’d think the Dems would learn that Crime Doesn’t Pay right?
Middlesex County Democratic Chairman Joseph Spicuzzo turns himself in to face corruption charges
Middlesex County Democratic Chairman Joseph Spicuzzo, a veteran politician who served as sheriff for 30 years, turned himself in this morning at the State Police barracks here to face corruption charges.
He is accused of bribery and a pattern of official misconduct. The Attorney General’s Office has scheduled a press conference for 10:30 a.m. to discuss the charges.
A law enforcement official said Spicuzzo allegedly gave out jobs at the sheriff’s office in return for money.
Spicuzzo also serves on the New Jersey Sports and Exposition Authority board. But his power base is Middlesex County, where his political career spans decades.
He started as mayor of Spotswood from 1976 to 1980, then served as county sheriff for a record-setting 10 terms. He decided not to seek re-election last year, citing health concerns.
In May 2009, the county agreed to pay nearly $1 million to settle a sexual harassment suit five female officers filed against the county and Spicuzzo.
Later that year, then Gov. Jon Corzine nominated him to the board overseeing the Sports Authority, which runs the state’s major sports arenas, event venues and racetracks. Republicans quickly pounced on the decision, saying Spicuzzo lacked qualifications.
“I’ll learn as I go along,” Spicuzzo said at the time.
