In a campaign promising to tackle crime, New Jersey governor hopeful Jack Ciattarelli finds himself amid controversy over financial backers that include figures linked to organized crime and financial scandals.
One notable donor is Louis Civello, Jr., son of a reputed La Cosa Nostra figure known as “Louie the Leg-Breaker.” Civello operates a used car dealership in Bridgeton, implicated in a 2015 state investigation for alleged tax evasion and money laundering. Despite his links to organized crime, Civello has not faced criminal charges. He contributed the state-maximum $5,800 to Ciattarelli’s campaign in June.
Joseph J. Fafone, another contributor, is tied to the Gambino crime family according to federal prosecutors. Both he and his father, Joseph P. “Boca Joe” Fafone, faced charges in 2002 for operating an illegal sports betting website. While Boca Joe served prison time, Joseph J. received probation. Again in 2009, they were involved in illegal gambling activities, resulting in a $2 million fine for the younger Fafone. He donated $4,900 to Ciattarelli’s previous campaign.
Former Newark police captain Anthony Buono also figures among Ciattarelli’s donors. Involved in a 2009 conspiracy to sell private insurance data, Buono was sentenced to probation.
Richard Costabile, who once ran Ironbound Floor Covering Inc., pleaded guilty in 2006 to bribery in exchange for school district work. He received a probation sentence and a $2,000 fine.
Ciattarelli’s supporters also include those accused of health care fraud. Dr. Richard Lipsky was involved in a Medicare overbilling scheme at Silver Lake Hospital, resulting in a $12 million settlement. William G. Burris faces allegations of similar schemes with his health care facilities, risking Medicaid funding.
White-collar crimes are also part of Ciattarelli’s donor background. Jeffrey Citron, former CEO of Vonage, was fined $22.5 million by the SEC for securities fraud in 2003. He, along with his spouse, donated the maximum amount to Ciattarelli. Robert O. Carr from Connecticut was fined for insider trading.
Despite trailing behind Democratic opponent Rep. Mikie Sherrill in most polls, Ciattarelli’s campaign benefits from significant backing by the Republican National Committee, making it the priciest gubernatorial contest in New Jersey’s history. The election is set for November 4.
