Democrat donor charged with crime
Democratic power broker George Norcross is currently facing racketeering and other charges in New Jersey, as revealed by the state’s attorney general on Monday. The charges are related to government-issued tax credits, with allegations that Norcross and others obtained property rights on the Camden waterfront and collected millions of dollars in state-backed tax credits.
According to State Attorney General Matt Platkin, Norcross and his associates utilized their political influence to shape New Jersey economic development legislation in their favor. Subsequently, they allegedly conspired to extort and coerce others to acquire properties and property rights on the Camden waterfront, along with associated tax incentive credits, once the legislation was enacted in September 2013.
The indictment goes on to suggest that Norcross led a criminal enterprise, where members agreed to use threats of economic and reputational harm, along with committing other criminal offenses, to achieve the enterprise’s objectives.
Not only is George Norcross facing charges, but his brother Philip, a lobbyist, lawyer Bill Tambussi, former Camden Mayor Dana Redd, Sidney Brown (CFO of trucking company NFI), and John O’Donnell (a businessman from northern New Jersey) are also named in the indictment, according to Politico.
While George Norcross has never held elected office, he has exerted significant influence in New Jersey politics, being a key member of the state’s Democratic National Committee.
Furthermore, Norcross has been known to have connections with prominent Democrats like former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, among others. His brother, Donald, who is a member of the House of Representatives, was not implicated in the indictment.
It is essential to note that the Associated Press contributed to this report.
In light of these recent developments, it is clear that the political landscape in New Jersey is undergoing significant upheaval. The implications of the charges against George Norcross and his associates are likely to have far-reaching consequences within the state’s political circles.
As more information comes to light and the legal proceedings unfold, the public will undoubtedly be closely watching the outcome of this case. The allegations of racketeering and abuse of political influence strike at the core of ethical governance and will undoubtedly spark intense debate and scrutiny.
Only time will tell how this case unfolds and what impact it will have on the political landscape in New Jersey and beyond. For now, all we can do is wait and see how events continue to unfold in this high-stakes legal drama.
