Mangano, wife, town supervisor accused of corruption

NEW YORK (FOX 5 NY) - Federal authorities announced Thursday that Nassau County Executive Ed Mangano, his wife Linda Mangano and Oyster Bay Town Supervisor John Venditto have been indicted on federal corruption charges.

The highest elected official in the large suburban county outside New York City is accused of helping federally indicted Long Island restaurant magnate Harendra Singh with business deals in exchange for free vacations and other perks, reported the New York Post.

U.S. Attorney Robert L. Capers unsealed the 13-count federal indictment Thursday in Central Islip. The Manganos and Venditto are accused of federal program bribery, honest service wire fraud and conspiracy.

According to the indictment, Linda Mangano was allegedly paid more than $450,000 for a "no-show" job. The family also received free vacations, a massage chair, a $7,000 watch and new floors.

At about 7 a.m., Mangano, his wife and attorney Kevin Keating were seen leaving the Mangano home in Bethpage for FBI offices in Melville.

The three pleaded not guilty at their arraignments in U.S. District Court in Central Islip and were freed on $500,000 bond each.

Mangano then said he will not resign.

"America is the greatest country in the world and I have an opportunity when at the proper time to present my evidence that rebukes any of this nonsense that I would ever do anything that sacrifices my oath of office," Mangano said. "It is ridiculous but I can't say anything more. I'm going to continue to govern. I'll go to work."

"County Executive Mangano has the highest integrity and has done nothing wrong," said spokesman Brian Nevin in a prepared statement. He went on to call the allegations "nonsense."

Venditto's attorney, Brian Griffin, said: "The charges as alleged against Mr. Venditto are underwhelming to say the least."

Singh, who has ties to New York Mayor Bill de Blasio, was arrested in 2015. He is reportedly helping authorities who are investigating de Blasio campaign fundraising.

Mangano was elected in 2009 and re-elected in 2013.

With the Associated Press