NJ Power Broker George Norcross Pleads Not Guilty to 13-Count Racketeering Indictment

Jul 9, 2024, 06:00 PM

New Jersey Democratic power broker George E. Norcross III pleaded not guilty on Tuesday to a 13-count indictment charging him with leading a criminal enterprise. The charges include allegations of racketeering, coercion, and extortion, with claims that Norcross and his co-defendants used these tactics to control and craft legislation for their benefit. The sweeping 111-page indictment accuses Norcross of illegally muscling rivals out of property deals in Camden to take advantage of millions of dollars in state tax breaks and acquire waterfront property. Norcross's attorney has accused New Jersey Attorney General Matt Platkin of targeting Norcross to further his political career. The arraignment for Sidney Brown, CEO of NFI Industries and a co-defendant, has been rescheduled to August 7 due to his attorney's absence.