TRENTON, N.J. — New Jersey’s attorney general has charged influential Democratic strongman George Norcross with organized crime and other charges related to government-issued tax credits, according to an indictment unsealed Monday.
Norcross, a former Democratic National Committeeman and one-time chairman of the Camden County Democratic Party and an influential figure in state politics, is accused of acquiring property rights along Camden’s waterfront and collecting millions of dollars in state-backed tax credits, according to the indictment.
New Jersey Attorney General Matt Platkin, speaking at a news conference in Trenton, accused Norcross of leading a criminal enterprise to obtain millions of dollars in tax breaks and property rights along the Delaware River in Camden.
Platkin said Norcross told the developer that if he did not give up his property rights, he would retaliate and make it impossible for the developer to do business in Camden.
Platkin said the alleged conspirators also enlisted the help of government development agencies to gain an advantage in private negotiations.
Norcross sat in the front row during the news conference, watching intently as the attorney general detailed the charges against him. Asked Monday how he felt about Norcross being in the room, Platkin said he had no comment.
Norcross’ attorney, Michael Critchley, rose to ask the attorney general a question, but Platkin left before Critchley could ask a question. The Associated Press left a message seeking comment from Critchley.
According to the indictment, Norcross and his associates “used their political influence to tailor New Jersey’s economic development law to their liking. After the law was enacted in September 2013, members of Norcross Enterprises and their associates conspired to intimidate and coerce others to obtain waterfront real estate and property rights, and related tax benefits, for certain individuals and businesses.”
