Wedtech trial finally begins, Bronx pols jailed

1988

Long-awaited

Two years after the investigation of political corruption involving a little-known Bronx defense contractor was announced in The Press, Rep. Mario Biaggi and Stanley Simon, the borough president forced from office by the scandal, went on trial in March.

Prosecutors charged that Mr. Simon agreed to accept bribe money in the form of pre-paid gambling sprees and contributions to local synagogues, his political club and his re-election campaign. In addition, they said, the contractor picked up the tab for meals at Riverdale and Arthur Avenue restaurants for campaign workers.

Mr. Biaggi insisted that witnesses — who claimed that Wedtech stock was given to his son’s law firm in return for the congressman’s influence — were attempting to frame him to cover up the role of Reagan White House officials, including U.S. Attorney General Edwin Meese III.

The case dragged on throughout the spring and summer before the jury finally got to deliver a verdict in mid-August. Both men were found guilty of racketeering and bribery.