Brief
Former NYC Buildings Commissioner Eric Ulrich to face bench trial on bribery charges
The trial, set for Monday, will address accusations that Ulrich took thousands in bribes while serving in city posts.
By Felo News Desk · Published
Former New York City Buildings Department commissioner Eric Ulrich will stand trial on Monday in Manhattan Supreme Court, according to the New York Post. The bench trial, presided over by Judge Daniel Conviser, follows a September 2023 indictment that charged Ulrich with 16 felonies across five counts stemming from his time as a Queens councilmember, senior advisor to Mayor Eric Adams, and buildings commissioner.
What happened
Prosecutors allege Ulrich ran a multi‑year scheme offering political shortcuts in exchange for bribes. The indictment lists payments from Michael Mazzio, a Brooklyn towing‑company operator, who allegedly paid Ulrich to expedite building and health inspections. Ulrich is also accused of receiving nearly $5,000 for Mets‑Yankees Subway Series tickets in 2022 and spending $10,000 on Mets season‑ticket packages, custom suits, and a painting by a Salvador Dali apprentice.
What the reports add
The Post notes that Ulrich was charged alongside six other defendants, including the Livreri brothers, owners of Aldo’s Pizzeria, who pleaded guilty to bribery after paying Ulrich $4,000 to halt a DOB enforcement action. One indictment involving real‑estate developer Mark Caller was dismissed in January, while cases against Paul Grego and Victor Truta remain active.
What was said
Steven Hirsch, writing for the New York Post, reported that Ulrich claims he cannot afford an attorney. No statements from prosecutors or defense attorneys were included in the article.
How it came about
Ulrich’s legal troubles began after a Manhattan District Attorney investigation led to his resignation six months into his tenure as buildings commissioner. The current trial follows months of court filings and the earlier guilty pleas of co‑defendants.
Key facts
- Eric Ulrich's bench trial begins Monday in Manhattan Supreme Court. (nypost.com)
- He faces 16 felony counts across five indictments. (nypost.com)
- Prosecutors allege bribes included Mets tickets, custom suits, and a Dali‑style painting. (nypost.com)
- Co‑defendant Michael Mazzio is accused of paying for expedited inspections. (nypost.com)
- If convicted of bribery, Ulrich could receive a minimum of five years in prison. (nypost.com)
Sources
- [1] nypost.com — originally reported as “Disgraced ex-NYC Buildings head finally heads to trial for allegedly pocketing thousands in bribes”
