Case Details

Year Initiated/Committed

2005

Year Resolved

2014

Lead State

PA

Participating States

Defendant(s)

Joseph Brimmeier

Offenses

two counts corrupt organizations, two counts of unlawful bid-rigging, two counts of restricted activities, one count of commercial bribery, one count of criminal attempt, and one count of criminal conspiracy

Sentence Imposed

For felony conflict of interest, $2500 fine, five years probation, 250 hours community service

Case Description

The Pennsylvania Attorney General charged 8 men with a “pay to play” scheme involving contracts with the Pennsylvania Turnpike Authority. Defendant Joseph Brimmeier is the former Chief Executive Officer (“CEO”) of the Pennsylvania Turnpike Commission. Brimmeier was involved in all major decisions at the Turnpike. In addition, Brimmeier took orders directly from Senator Mellow, or his Chief of Staff, concerning the awarding of Turnpike contracts to particular vendors, and political fundraising efforts required of Turnpike personnel and Turnpike vendors. The grand jury found that the eight individuals committed and attempted to commit illegal bid-rigging, commercial bribery, conflict of interest, theft by unlawful taking, theft by deception, criminal conspiracy and acting as a corrupt organization engaging in a pattern of racketeering activity.