Related Federal Cases
Ex-Mayor Guilty of Stealing Campaign Funds
A shocking case of corruption has unfolded in Dunkirk, New York, as former Mayor Richard L. Frey, 85, pleaded guilty to wire fraud for using campaign contributions for his own personal benefit. The scheme, which occurred from January 2003 through June 2012, involved Frey soliciting and receiving large campaign contributions from local businesses and businesspeople.
However, instead of depositing the donations into his campaign accounts, Frey cashed the checks for his personal use or deposited them into his personal bank accounts. He then concealed the existence of these larger campaign contributions by not reporting or disclosing them on his campaign disclosure reports, as was required of local candidates for public office.
According to the plea agreement, Frey admitted to stealing campaign funds for his own personal gain. The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Western District of New York announced that Frey will be sentenced on May 11, 2017.
The investigation into Frey’s actions was conducted by the FBI’s Buffalo Field Office and the U.S. Housing and Urban Development Office of Inspector General. Former Assistant U.S. Attorney John E. Rogowski and Assistant U.S. Attorney John Fabian, along with Trial Attorney Edward P. Sullivan of the Public Integrity Section, are prosecuting the case.
The case serves as a stark reminder of the importance of transparency and accountability in government. As a public official, Frey had a duty to uphold the trust of his constituents, but instead, he chose to prioritize his own personal interests.
The guilty plea is a significant blow to Frey’s reputation and a testament to the tireless efforts of law enforcement agencies working to root out corruption in our communities. The people of Dunkirk deserve to know that their elected officials will be held accountable for their actions.
Key Facts
- State: New York
- Category: Public Corruption|Fraud & Financial Crimes
- Source: DOJ Press Release â†â€â€
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