Robert Scott Gaddy, Bribery Concerning Programs Receiving Federal Funds, New York 2018

A high-stakes bribery scheme has been unearthed in New York, with Rochester resident Robert Scott Gaddy, 48, at the center of the scandal. The 48-year-old Albany native was arrested and charged by criminal complaint with bribery concerning programs receiving federal funds, and honest services wire fraud.

The charges carry a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison and a $250,000 fine.

According to the complaint, Gaddy, a lobbyist registered with the State of New York, owns and operates the lobbying firm Excelsior Advocates, LLC. At various times, Excelsior Advocates maintained lobbying contracts with the Rochester Genesee Regional Transportation Authority, and the Rochester City School District.

During an investigation into allegations of fraud and corruption involving a large re-development project in the City of Rochester, the FBI identified potential corrupt acts by Gaddy and various public officials. As a result, special agents began an investigation into the relationship between the defendant and New York State Assemblyman Joseph Errigo.

Working with an individual known to the FBI, special agents arranged for that individual to approach Gaddy about paying a bribe to Member A in order to introduce certain legislation.

On September 4, 2017, the individual met with Gaddy who and stated that he represented a wealthy client who wanted to stop the proposed development in Monroe County and was willing to pay $15,000 in order to do so. The defendant responded, “Yeah . . . yeah, no problem.” Over the next few weeks, the individual met with Gaddy to discuss and plan the bribery scheme, including the roles of Assemblyman Joseph Errigo and another assembly member identified as Member A.

On February 9, 2018, Gaddy arranged for a meeting between the individual and Errigo at Errigo’s Pittsford, NY office. During that meeting, the individual gave $1,500 cash to Errigo and $2,500 to Gaddy. On March 16, 2018, the individual gave Errigo another $2,000.

The individual paid Errigo and Gaddy a total of $10,500 to obtain the introduction of proposed legislation in the New York State Assembly, and begin the process of obtaining passage of a State law.

Joseph Errigo was arrested on October 10, 2018, and also charged with bribery concerning programs receiving federal funds, and honest services wire fraud.

The defendant made an initial appearance before U.S. Magistrate Judge Marian W. Payson and was released. Gaddy is due back in court on December 18, 2018, for a status conference.