A New Jersey judge delivered a seismic blow to prosecutors Wednesday by dismissing racketeering charges against Democratic power broker George Norcross and five co-defendants. Superior Court Judge Peter Warshaw ruled the state’s case failed to prove criminal coercion in a waterfront property dispute central to Attorney General Matt Platkin’s indictment.
Economic negotiations in free markets often involve threats that aren’t inherently unlawful,Warshaw wrote in his 100-page decision, emphasizing the charges were both legally insufficient and time-barred.
The dismissed 2024 indictment accused Norcross of orchestrating a decade-long scheme to manipulate Camden development projects and tax incentives for personal gain. Prosecutors cited a recorded phone call where Norcross allegedly told a developer: You will face enormous consequencesfor resisting demands.
Key case elements include:
- Alleged coercion of waterfront property rights in Camden
- Misuse of $245M in state tax credits
- Coordination with brother Philip Norcross and former Camden Mayor Dana Redd
Platkin immediately announced plans to appeal, reigniting his public feud with Norcross. Defense attorneys counter that multiple prior investigations into the same allegations - including federal probes - found no wrongdoing.
Norcross remains one of New Jersey’s most influential political figures, having shaped Democratic campaigns and policy for decades. His attorneys called the dismissal a complete vindication,while critics argue it demonstrates systemic protections for political elites.