Newark’s former Senior Aide to the Mayor, Al-Tarik Onque, has entered a guilty plea for conspiracy to commit honest services fraud. The 49-year-old from East Orange faces a potential sentence of up to 20 years in prison and a $250,000 fine.
Onque admitted using his position to solicit cash bribes in exchange for expediting the acquisition of Certificate of Code Compliance (CCC) and Certificate of Occupancy (CO) documents. These documents are crucial for property owners seeking to make changes or ensure compliance with Newark’s building codes.
The investigation leading to Onque’s plea was spearheaded by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, with Special Agent in Charge Stefanie Roddy directing efforts in Newark. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Francesca Liquori and Matthew Specht represent the government in this case.
Alina Habba, Acting U.S. Attorney and Special Attorney, noted the significant role played by the FBI agents in bringing this matter to light. The sentencing hearing is scheduled for January 15, 2026, before U.S. District Judge William J. Martini.
This scandal highlights the ongoing battle against public corruption within Newark’s city government. The charges against Onque underscore the seriousness of the offense and the commitment to justice in the community.
Onque is represented by defense counsel Ernesto Cerimele, Esq., of Newark. For more information on this case, please refer to the attached document: onque.information.pdf.
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Key Facts
- State: New Jersey
- Agency: DOJ USAO
- Category: Fraud & Financial Crimes|Public Corruption|White Collar Crime
- Source: Official Source ↗
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