MOUNT CLEMENS, Mich. (AP) - A day after his boss was charged, a former suburban public works official pleaded guilty Thursday to extorting builders and contractors to buy tickets to political fundraisers or face consequences.
Dino Bucci worked for Anthony Marrocco, who had broad authority over sewer lines, water and infrastructure as Macomb County’s elected public works commissioner.
“The lengthy prison sentence he faces should be an unambiguous warning to all public officials who consider committing corrupt acts that they will be caught and punished severely,” U.S. Attorney Matthew Schneider said of Bucci.
Bucci, 60, appeared in federal court by video because of coronavirus restrictions. He said he forced contractors to spend hundreds of thousands of dollars to fatten Marrocco’s campaign accounts.
“They had to buy these or bad things would happen to them economically, isn’t that right?” Assistant U.S. Attorney Michael Bullotta asked.
“Yes, Mr. Bullotta,” Bucci replied.
Marrocco, 71, was public works commissioner for more than 20 years. He lost re-election in 2016.
An indictment unsealed Wednesday charges Marrocco with conspiracy, extortion and attempted extortion.
Bucci, who also served as an elected Macomb Township trustee, told a contractor to overcharge for township paving work and then give him kickbacks, according to his plea agreement. Bucci must pay $96,000 to the township.
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