NJ Transit Worker from Beachwood Admits Extorting Money from Vendors
A New Jersey Transit employee has admitted obtaining money from vendors in exchange for helping them get work from the agency, U.S. Attorney Paul J. Fishman announced Tuesday.
55-year-old William Talerico pleaded guilty to affecting commerce by extortion before U.S. District Judge William H. Walls in Newark federal court.
From at least January 2006 to April 2012, Talerico was a supervisor of stations for NJ Transit, responsible for overseeing maintenance and custodial functions at some facilities. During that time, authorities said he took "corrupt payments" in cash from numerous vendors. In exchange, Talerico used his authority and influence to help the vendors get work.
He faces up to 20 years in prison when sentenced in January.