SAYREVILLE – A Parlin man, who has a longstanding in Sayreville politics, has been charged with allegedly accepting “several thousands of dollars” in bribes, according to Middlesex County Prosecutor Yolanda Ciccone.
Thomas V. Pollando, 72, who is currently the chairman of the Sayreville Borough Democratic Organization, was charged with second-degree bribery in official matters, and second-degree receipt of unlawful benefit by public servant for official behavior.
Pollando was charged on a summons and released the day of his apprehension, according to a press release through the Middlesex County Prosecutor’s Office on Sept. 1.
Over a several week period in July and August, detectives from the Middlesex County Prosecutor’s Office were conducting electronic surveillance of a business in Sayreville. While conducting surveillance, detectives observed Pollando allegedly accept “several thousands of dollars in cash, and state that he would attempt to use his political clout to influence an ongoing criminal case,” according to the press release.
An investigation conducted by Sgt. Joseph Celantano and Detective Shadi Zaiton of the Middlesex County Prosecutor’s Office determined Pollando has influence and strong ties to the community.
Pollando formerly served as council president of the Sayreville Borough Council, he is the current vice-chairman of the Middlesex County Planning Board, and a long-time president of the Sayreville Athletic Association.
He also holds a seat on the Sayreville Economic & Redevelopment Authority and is currently employed with the New Jersey Turnpike Authority.
Pollando was subsequently apprehended after allegedly leaving the business and was found in possession of the reported cash payment.
The investigation is active and continuing. Anyone with information is asked to call Detective Zaiton of the Middlesex County Prosecutor’s Office at 732-745-4263.