Two retired FDNY chiefs plead not guilty to bribery amid corruption investigation

The two are accused of using their titles within the BFP to help at least 30 buildings skip the line for critical fire safety inspections in exchange for bribes.

"They allegedly created a VIP lane for faster service that could only be accessed with bribes," said Damian Williams, U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of New York.

Williams says Saccavino and Cordasco worked with retired FDNY firefighter, Henry Santiago Jr. who ran an unsanctioned expediting business. Sanitago pleaded guilty.

"After Sanitago was paid by customers for fast tracking, he would secretly give a cut to Saccavino and Cordasco to obtain preferential treatment by the BFP for his customers," said Williams.

The year-long investigation began after the FDNY was tipped off about the alleged crimes and reported it to authorities.

Prosecutors say the bribes happened between 2021 and 2023, during a time when there was a backlog of businesses in need of inspections due to the coronavirus pandemic. Cordasco and Saccavino pocketed $190,000 collectively, in addition to their $250,000 salaries.

"These charges send the important message that DOI is watching, and our law enforcement partners are work with us to hold those accountable public officials who abuse their power," said Jocelyn Strauber, commissioner for the Department of Investigation.

The indictment alleges that City Hall had its own list of stakeholders that they requested to prioritize.

"This administration did not have a list name like that, we made that clear and we stand by that," said Mayor Eric Adams in response.

FDNY Commissioner Robert Tucker released a statement:

"Every member of the FDNY takes a sworn oath to conduct themselves honestly and ethically. Anything less will not be tolerated. The Department will fully cooperate with any ongoing investigations. Keeping New Yorkers safe remains our top priority."

Cordasco and Saccavino were released on $250,000 personal recognizance bonds.