Corruption Charges Against Former Top Aide To Cuomo, Others

NEW YORK (AP) — A federal prosecutor has accused nine people, including a former top aide to Democratic Gov. Andrew Cuomo, of bribery and fraud in Cuomo's signature economic development projects.

UPDATED 2:39 P.M.: Eight people, including a top former aide to Governor Andrew Cuomo, are being charged with corruption and fraud.

U.S. Attorney Preet Bharara says Joseph Percoco, once described by Cuomo as being like a brother, pushed for bribes in exchange for preferential treatment in state contracts.

Cuomo is not accused of any crime.

Bharara says Percoco took in more than $325,000, using language from the TV mafia drama "The Sopranos," calling the money "Ziti."

In a statement, Cuomo said "if the allegations are true" he's saddened and profoundly disappointed.

Cuomo says another defendant, Alain Kaloyeros, the President of the State University of New York Polytechnic Institute, has been suspended without pay.

According to Bharara a ninth person, former Cuomo aide Todd Howe, pleaded guilty yesterday and is working with prosecutors.

(by Jim Rondenelli)

Original story:

Joseph Percoco, the former executive deputy secretary to the governor, and Alain Kaloyeros, president of SUNY Polytechnic Institute, are among those who face charges.

Messages left with Cuomo's office were not immediately returned. Percoco's lawyer and Kaloyeros weren't initially available for comment.

U.S. Attorney Preet Bharara has scheduled a news conference at noon Thursday to discuss the case.

Cuomo's office said in April that Bharara was examining possible undisclosed conflicts of interest and improper bidding related to the Cuomo's efforts to attract high-tech jobs upstate.

The federal probe revealed a web of individuals and businesses tied to Cuomo that stand to make millions from the projects.