(ImpactHeadlines.com) – George E. Norcross III, one of the most influential state Democrats in New Jersey, has been indicted on over a dozen counts related to racketeering charges.
The indictment was handed down by Matthew Platkin, New Jersey’s Democrat attorney general, on June 17th. The 111-page document details Norcross’ efforts to exert his influence in exchange for prime waterfront real estate deals in the city of Camden.
His brother, Philip Norcross, is also facing charges, along with William M. Tambussi, Norcross’s lawyer, Dana Redd, Camden’s mayor, and a man named John O’Donnell.
The indictment accuses Norcross of operating a “criminal enterprise” in New Jersey for over a decade. As a result, the indictment says, a great deal of harm has come to the people, businesses, and organizations of New Jersey, and particularly those in Camden. He also said they allegedly worked with other state officials who essentially looked the other way when the influential Democrat used his power to obtain several building permits and tax credits given by the government amounting to hundreds of millions of dollars.
In one incident, Norcross allegedly threatened a property developer who owned real estate that Norcross Enterprises wanted to acquire. He then allegedly attempted to convince officials with the city of Camden to have that developer’s property condemned. He also allegedly smeared the developer’s reputation to city officials.
Norcross sat in the front row during the press conference as Platkin announced the indictment and accusations. He remained seated even after one of the attorney general’s aides attempted to make him move. He later called Platkin a “coward.”
Philip Norcross’s lawyer said he and his brother are completely innocent and claimed the charges were “politically motivated.” The second-degree charges carry a penalty ranging up to 10 years in prison and $150,000 in fines. Their arraignment will take place on July 9th before a judge in Mercer County.
He was admonished by Sue Altman, a fellow New Jersey Democrat, over the charges. She claimed the indictment is a step in replacing a “culture of corruption” within the state.
Copyright 2024, ImpactHeadlines.com
