Congressman Michael Grimm is close to being charged by the U.S. attorney’s office, his attorney confirmed this afternoon.
Mr. Grimm has reportedly been under investigation by the feds in relation to allegations of campaign finance fraud. His former girlfriend was arrested earlier this year.
His attorney called the news, which was first reported by POLITICO, the result of a “vendetta’ against the Republican congressman who represents parts of Staten Island and Brooklyn.
“After more than two years of investigation plagued by malicious leaks, violations of grand jury secrecy, and strong-arm tactics, the U.S. Attorney’s Office has disclosed its intent to file criminal charges against Congressman Grimm,” Mr. Grimm’s lawyer, William McGinley, told the Observer in a statement first published by POLITICO. “We are disappointed by the government’s decision, but hardly surprised. From the beginning, the government has pursued a politically driven vendetta against Congressman Grimm and not an independent search for the truth. Congressman Grimm asserts his innocence of any wrongdoing.”
“When the dust settles, he will be vindicated,” Mr. McGinley added. “Until then, he will continue to serve his constituents with the same dedication and tenacity that has characterized his lifetime of public service as a Member of Congress, Marine Corps combat veteran, and decorated FBI Special Agent.”
Mr. Grimm drew national headlines this year after he threatened to throw an NY1 reporter off a balcony after the president’s State of the Union address.
A spokesman for the U.S. attorney’s office declined to comment, saying, “I cannot confirm, deny or comment on the reports.”
Mr. Grimm’s office did not immediately respond to a request for comment.
