It could probably be shown by facts and figures that there is no distinctly native American criminal class except Congress. Mark Twain.
Bronx city councilman Larry Seabrook was a taker. He funneled thousands of dollars from a city council member-items slush fund to family and friends and phony non-profits, according to the New York Daily News. He was convicted of corruption in federal district court.
Larry Seabrook is going to prison. Brings back memories of former State Senator Pedro Espada, who is appealing his conviction.
Seabrook was convicted on nine of twelve counts at his second trial. His first trial ended with a hung jury.
It was alleged that he bought a diet soda and bagel for seven dollars near City Hall, altered the receipt to show $177, and was reimbursed by the Seabrook-run North East Bronx Community Democratic Club. He was charged with taking more than $44,000 in bogus expenses from the club and using it for flights to Florida, flowers, and gifts.
Seabrook was also charged with collecting over $200,000 in illegal rents, and extorting $283,000 from a boiler company executive for work performed at Yankee Stadium. Also, it was alleged that he gave $322,800 to his girlfriend. On the street, he was known as "Cash and Carry Larry."
"Councilman Seabrook basically operated his own corrupt, city-council-funded friends and family plan," Manhattan U.S. Attorney Preet Bharara said.
While it is comforting to know that Seabrook is going to jail, what about that $50 million New York City Council slush fund?
How many political parasites are feeding on this slush fund? Readers can focus on NYC daily media reports. If the story isn't carried on the front page of a newspaper or in the police blotter, look in the entertainment section.
Editor recommends: Hall of Shame. http://jeffpaine.blogspot.com/2012/02/hall-of-shame.html
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