Former NY Senate Leader Joseph Bruno Charged With Profiteering in Office

When he decided not to seek reelection in June, longtime New York Senate majority leader Joseph Bruno said the decision had nothing to do with the FBI's seizure of 30 boxes of records at his office at the state Capitol.

But today the U.S. Department of Justice announced that Bruno, 79, has been indicted on eight counts including wire and mail fraud concerning his alleged use of his office to obtain millions of dollars in "consulting" fees, in violation of state ethics and reporting laws. recounts the Wall Street Journal.

Although New York law permits state officials to hold other part-time jobs, Bruno is accused of exploiting his office by concealing payments from parties that benefited from his official actions, the newspaper article explains. "The indictment alleges the Republican received some $3.2 million from five groups of individuals and related entities, either directly or through consulting companies, between 1993 and 2006."

The case is being prosecuted by acting U.S. Attorney Andrew Baxter, who is based in Syracuse. Before resigning in July, Bruno had spent 32 years in the state senate.

Additional coverage:

Associated Press: "Former NY Senate leader Joseph Bruno indicted"

New York Times: "Corruption Indictment for Ex-Senate Leader Bruno"

Capitol Confidential (Albany Times-Union): "Speaking of indictments, Bruno is on tap"