Bribes for Book Learning: Builder Nabbed in NY College Scheme

BOSTON – Another brick in the wall of corruption has crumbled. Willian Borges, 28, of Fort Lauderdale, Florida, was arrested today and indicted on charges stemming from a brazen bribery scheme targeting a New York-area college. The feds allege Borges funneled cash to a college facilities employee in exchange for sweet construction deals, a classic case of quid pro quo that’s landed both men in deep trouble.

According to the indictment unsealed today, Borges, a principal at DWD Builders from 2018 to 2019, colluded with Floyd Young, a college staffer responsible for facility maintenance. Young allegedly steered contracts for everything from repairs to full-blown construction projects to favored contractors – including Borges – who, in turn, greased his palms. The alleged kickbacks typically amounted to a hefty 15% of each contract’s value.

The indictment paints a picture of clandestine meetings where Borges handed over cash bribes to Young. But the scheme didn’t stop there. As Borges received payments from the college for completed work, he continued to funnel bribes to Young on a regular basis. Worse still, Borges allegedly inflated invoices submitted to the college, effectively recouping the bribe money. On some occasions, the pair allegedly submitted invoices for work never performed, then split the ill-gotten gains. A brazen double-dip, if the charges hold up.

This isn’t a solo act. Floyd Young already threw in the towel, pleading guilty yesterday to conspiracy to receive bribes by an agent of an organization receiving federal funds. He’s slated to be sentenced on February 1, 2020. Expect him to sing like a canary when he faces the judge. This case highlights how easily public funds can be diverted through backroom deals and corrupt officials.

If convicted, Borges faces a serious stretch behind bars. The conspiracy charge carries a maximum sentence of five years in prison, three years of supervised release, and a fine of $250,000 or twice the gross gain or loss. Each of the three bribery counts carries a maximum of 10 years, three years of supervised release, and the same hefty fine. However, sentencing is ultimately up to the judge, who will consider U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other factors.

United States Attorney Andrew E. Lelling and Joseph R. Bonavolonta, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI’s Boston Field Division, announced the charges today. Assistant U.S. Attorney Alex J. Grant of Lelling’s Springfield Branch Office is handling the prosecution. Remember, these are allegations at this point. Borges is presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt. Grimy Times will continue to follow this case as it unfolds.