Rep. Biaggi, Ex-Democratic Leader Plead Not Guilty to Bribery Charges

Rep. Mario Biaggi (D-N.Y.) and former Brooklyn Democratic leader Meade Esposito pleaded not guilty Monday to charges of bribery, conspiracy and obstruction of justice in a scheme allegedly aimed at saving a ship repair company.

“All I can say is we’re here and we’re strong and confident,” Biaggi said outside his arraignment before Judge Jack Weinstein in Brooklyn federal court.

Biaggi, wearing a navy pin-striped suit with a white handkerchief in the breast pocket, and his attorney, Barry Slotnick, were mobbed by reporters and cameramen outside the courthouse.

Trial Delay Requested

Slotnick, citing an “amazing” amount of evidence in the case, requested a delay in the tentative July 6 trial date set by the judge.

Prosecutors said they intend to present more than 2,500 tapes of evidence against Biaggi and Esposito.

The judge said he planned to keep the trial date but would consider the attorney’s request. Biaggi remains free and was ordered to appear at a pretrial hearing May 1.

Prosecutors contend Esposito paid $3,000 in expenses for a 1985 Florida vacation taken by Biaggi and a female companion during the Christmas holidays at the Bonaventure Hotel and Spa in Fort Lauderdale, Fla.

In return, prosecutors charge, Biaggi petitioned members of Congress and local officials to provide financial assistance to the Coastal Dry Dock & Repair Corp.