As county leader, Janiszewski, was in a position to facilitate the federal assistance. What Barry didn't know when he made five separate payments in 2000 and 2001 was that Janiszewski, who is currently incarcerated, had already been caught taking bribes from someone else and was cooperating with the feds as part of a long-term investigation into corruption in Hudson County.

Barry had co-founded the Hoboken-based Applied Cos. in the early 70's, and the bribery charges related to his company's Shipyard mixed-use project on the Hoboken waterfront. In the wake of the FBI's raid on his offices in 2001, Barry has withdrawn from an active role in the company, turning control over to his sons, Michael and David.

"We were confident that our case was strong," US attorney Christopher Christie told reporters after Barry delivered his guilty plea. "Justice has been done."

The corruption probe in Hudson County has, to date, garnered more than 20 indictments. More can be expected, Christie, who has been mentioned as a possible gubernatorial candidate in New Jersey, told reporters.

As part of the plea deal, Barry will pay a fine of $1 million. But because he refused to cooperate further with federal officials, he will do time. A sentence of at least two years is expected to be levied by US District Judge Joel Pisano here.

The Shipyard project, considered a waterfront showpiece, consists of more than 1,100 residential units and a retail component on 45 acres. Applied's other current developments include the 1,650-unit Port Liberte condo project in Jersey City, and the adjoining mixed-use Pier Village and Beach North projects in Long Branch, NJ.

Applied Cos. officials could not be reached for comment.

Instant Insights /

Developer Pleads Guilty to Bribery Charges

Related Stories

Recommended For You