Yesterday's primary election decided the fates of many politicians, but uncontested Queens Assemblyman Anthony Seminerio (D-Ozone Park) had his fate sealed by the FBI. Seminerio was being tracked by the Bureau for being well, another 'bloodsucker' in Albany and they executed warrants this past weekend. While Paterson might not have had Seminerio specificly in mind, the Feds had their silver bullet ready for him. The slayer happened to be an acquaintenace of his that wore a wire, recording some choice conversation.
From The Times-Union:
``I was doing favors for these sons of b---- there, you know, they were, they were making thousands,'' the FBI quoted Seminerio telling a cooperating witness on tape. ``Screw you, from now on, you know, I'm a consultant.''Seminerio turned himself into authorities in Manhattan this morning after the execution of search warrants in New York City and the Capital Region over the weekend.
The federal complaint from the FBI showed the probe also involved an undercover agent, hospital administrators who paid Seminerio to represent their interests in Albany and a lot of salty language by the crusty Seminerio, a former New York City correction officer.
U.S. Attorney for the Southern District Michael Garcia said the case focuses on Seminerio's creation of Marc Consultants, which received more than $500,000 in fees from parties with business before the state. Seminerio hid the business, even though state lawmakers must disclose income of more than $1,000, according to the corruption probe.
We may not have been able to take the down the ultimate prize (named Shelly Silver) but rooting out a corrupt politician is always a good thing. Now we just need to keep working to cut the figurative head off down the line so we can create a different culture in Albany, one that serves the people and not the politicians.
|