State Senator John Sampson Charged In Corruption Scandal

It looks like the federal net for nabbing corrupt New York politicians is getting wider. According to a New York Times report, State Senator John Sampson, whose recently redrawn 19th District represents a chunk of Sheepshead Bay, was ensnared in a broader federal corruption probe that has already led to charges against other local pols.

Sampson’s charges stem from conversations he had with former Queens State Senator Shirley Huntley, who has pleaded guilty of stealing taxpayer money through a nonprofit organization.

In March of 2012, Sampson allegedly sought out Huntley’s advice after being approached by a businessman allegedly offering bribes in exchange for help regarding his business at Kennedy International Airport. The airport is located in the district Huntley used to represent.

Through court papers, the Times learned that Huntley, as a cooperating federal witness, recorded conversations she had with several local politicians, which, according to prosecutors, yielded useful evidence.

Sampson is expected to be charged with obstruction of justice. At this time, it is not known if other politicians will also be charged.