Panel hears Paterson's Yankee tickets case
Gov. David A. Paterson attends the New York Yankees World Series Victory Celebration parade in lower Manhattan. (Nov. 6, 2009) Credit: Getty Images
A lawyer for New York’s Public Integrity Commission says Gov. David A. Paterson violated ethics laws by soliciting five World Series tickets last year from the New York Yankees, a registered lobbyist.
Bridget Holohan, the commission’s associate counsel, says at a hearing Tuesday that testimony from Yankees officials and former Paterson staff will show the governor never intended to pay for the tickets — worth more than $2,000 — before a press report on the arrangement.
Paterson, who has denied wrongdoing, did not attend. Theodore Wells, his lawyer, requested an adjournment until a related attorney general’s office probe is complete.
The request was denied and the hearing is continuing.
The Public Officers Law prohibits officials from soliciting or receiving gifts with more than a nominal value. Violators can be fined.
Out East Show: Visit The Shamrock evergreen maze, Sannino Vineyard, Seven Ponds Orchard and the Warrior Ranch Foundation NewsdayTV's Doug Geed is heading 'Out East' to showcase the ultimate local spots you need to explore.
Out East Show: Visit The Shamrock evergreen maze, Sannino Vineyard, Seven Ponds Orchard and the Warrior Ranch Foundation NewsdayTV's Doug Geed is heading 'Out East' to showcase the ultimate local spots you need to explore.
