FBI Arrives to Arrest Ex-Prosecutor, Fatal Shooting Ensues
A former leader in the Orange County prosecutor’s office, who was facing allegations of accepting bribery payments, died in a shooting at his home Tuesday morning as the FBI arrived to arrest him, sources familiar with the matter tell NBC New York.
Background and Allegations
Stewart Rosenwasser, the ex-chief counsel to the Orange County DA’s office and executive assistant district attorney, was accused of using his authority in the prosecutors’ office to initiate a criminal investigation at the request of a millionaire former restaurant owner, according to the unsealed federal indictment.
Indictment Details
Rosenwasser was indicted on charges of bribery, conspiracy to commit bribery, extortion under color of official right, making false statements, conspiracy to commit honest services fraud, and honest services wire fraud, the indictment states.
Fatal Incident
The FBI went to Rosenwasser’s home early Tuesday morning to take him into custody when he pointed a gun at agents and at least one shot was fired by the FBI, two sources familiar with the case tell NBC New York. Rosenwasser then barricaded himself and apparently took his own life, the sources said.
Official Statement
In a statement, the FBI said: “The FBI is reviewing an agent-involved shooting that occurred earlier this morning in Campbell Hall, NY. The FBI takes all shooting incidents involving our agents seriously. In accordance with FBI policy, the shooting incident is under review by the FBI’s Inspection Division. As this is an ongoing matter, we have no further details to provide.”
Accusations and Payment
Rosenwasser is being accused of accepting at least $63,000 in bribe payments, according to the indictment.
Conclusion
The investigation and allegations against Rosenwasser have led to a tragic and fatal outcome. The FBI is reviewing the incident, and the matter remains under investigation.
FAQs
Q: What were the allegations against Rosenwasser?
A: Rosenwasser was accused of using his authority to initiate a criminal investigation at the request of a millionaire former restaurant owner and accepting at least $63,000 in bribe payments.
Q: What happened during the FBI’s arrival to arrest Rosenwasser?
A: Rosenwasser pointed a gun at agents and at least one shot was fired by the FBI. He then barricaded himself and apparently took his own life.
Q: What is the FBI’s stance on the incident?
A: The FBI is reviewing the agent-involved shooting and is taking all shooting incidents involving their agents seriously.
