Two former New York City Fire Department chiefs were arrested on Monday, facing charges of soliciting tens of thousands of dollars in bribes to fast-track fire safety inspections. The charges against Anthony Saccavino, 59, and Brian Cordasco, 49, highlight deepening corruption investigations that may extend beyond the fire department.
Bribery and Corruption Charges
Saccavino and Cordasco, once leaders in the FDNY’s Bureau of Fire Prevention, were indicted on charges of bribery, corruption, and making false statements. From at least 2021 to 2023, the pair allegedly accepted bribes in exchange for giving preferential treatment to companies and individuals needing fire safety inspections and permits. Both men were released on $250,000 bail after pleading not guilty before a federal judge.
Federal Investigations
U.S. Attorney Damian Williams declined to confirm whether the arrests are linked to other ongoing federal investigations involving New York City Mayor Eric Adams and his top officials. One ongoing probe reportedly examines whether fire safety inspections were sped up at the Turkish consulate in exchange for illegal contributions. Williams did note that the fight against corruption is far from over, saying, “We are determined to address it from root to branch.”
Allegations of a ‘City Hall List’
Prosecutors claim that the two ex-fire chiefs used a “City Hall List” to prioritize projects linked to influential stakeholders. The list allegedly allowed politically connected developers to jump ahead of others waiting for inspections. The existence of this list has been denied by Mayor Adams, who has also faced scrutiny over growing allegations of favoritism in fire department inspections.
Saccavino’s lawyer, Joseph Caldarera, vehemently defended his client, describing him as “an American hero” and a 9/11 first responder who has served the department since 1995. “They’ve got the wrong guy,” he said, asserting that Saccavino denies all allegations.
Bribery Scheme Details
The indictment reveals that Saccavino and Cordasco worked closely with a retired firefighter who operated an unofficial “expediting” business. This business promised customers faster plan reviews and inspection dates in exchange for fees, reportedly collecting over $190,000 in bribes. The scheme allegedly intensified after the COVID-19 pandemic created significant backlogs in the fire department’s safety division.
The retired firefighter involved in the scheme has already pleaded guilty to charges related to the case, according to U.S. Attorney Williams.
