N.J. mayor admits extortion

NEWARK, N.J., May 9 (UPI) -- A New Jersey mayor caught in an FBI sting pleaded guilty Friday to one count of extortion.

Mayor Samuel Rivera of Passaic, at a hearing in federal court in Newark, admitted he helped an insurance broker get business with a city agency in return for a $5,000 bribe, The Star-Ledger of Newark reported. Rivera also resigned as mayor.

Henry Klingeman, Rivera's lawyer, said he had financial problems because of a complicated personal situation that includes several ex-wives. Rivera was a police officer before getting involved in politics.

"He struggled. That in no way excuses his conduct. He's very sorry and remorseful," Klingeman said. "This was clearly a crime of opportunity. The informant thrust a wad of cash in his hand and he took it. And he should have said no."

Eleven public officials around the state were arrested last year.

Klingeman said Rivera is likely to get a sentence of 18 to 24 months.