A northern New Jersey councilman has been arrested on charges he told a business owner he needed to pay $15,000 or the township wouldn't purchase his property.
Bloomfield Councilman Elias Chalet was taken into custody at his real estate office Monday night. The 53-year-old is charged with bribery.
Authorities say Chalet met with the business owner on Oct. 8 and made the proposition. The two met two more times in conversations that were recorded.
Acting Attorney General John Hoffman says Chalet "crookedly" used his authority for his personal enrichment.
He faces up to 10 years in prison if he's convicted.
Township officials didn't respond to requests for comment.
It's unclear if he has an attorney who could comment on the charges.
Copyright AP - Associated Press
