Assemblyman Wisniewski Reveals Failed Attempt to Lure Him Into Graft Scheme
July 29, 2009
(MIDDLESEX COUNTY) Assemblyman John Wisniewski (D-Middlesex) had a chance to do business with a man posing as a developer — if only he would mix his private law practice with public business.
The temptation allegedly came in a telephone call from Assemblyman L. Harvey Smith (D-Hudson) on behalf of Solomon Dwek, who was posing as a developer, when in fact he was working undercover with federal officials.
When Smith was arrested last week, the criminal complaint filed against him referred to his effort to lure an unnamed "DOT Official" into the scheme.
Wisniewski acknowledged that he is the "DOT Official." Though he does not work for the Department of Transportation he heads the state Assembly′s transportation committee.
Wisniewski said "ethically" he could not mix his private practice with official business before the DOT.
Even though he was unable to enlist Wisniewski in Dwek′s plan, Smith was rewarded for his work that day. According to the complaint, once outside the Hoboken diner Dwek gave Smith an envelope with $10,000 in cash.
When Wisniewski read the July 23 complaint, he said he knew immediately he was the unnamed "DOT official." His identity as the unnamed official was first reported Tuesday by Politickernj.com.
Wisniewski feels betrayed by Smith. "I′m disappointed that he would even pick up the phone to call me," said Wisniewski.
Wisniewski said his relationship with Smith was based solely on the fact that they sat on the same Assembly committee.
While thankful that he opted to reject Smith′s offer, Wisniewski lamented the fact that other elected officials were caught up in the scandal.
"Public trust is already at an all-time low," he said. "This is just another nail in the coffin. It shows the worst characteristics of those in public life. I ponder how we can get back the public trust."
"The only way government works is the people believe in it. If the people have no trust, then government doesn′t work," said Wisniewski.
By Rick Malwitz - Staff Writer for the Home News Tribune.
