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Mayor Phil Giordano was arrested on federal charges involving sex
with a minor, federal officials said Thursday.
US Attorney John Danaher III said Giordano was arrested at
approximately 7:45 a.m.
Giordano was charged with two criminal offenses, Danaher said. "First,
use of an interstate facility to entice a child under the age of 16 to
engage in sexual activity. Second, conspiracy to carry out that offense."
News Channel 8 has been told the charges against Giordano may involve
more than one minor.
If convicted, Giordano faces up to ten years in prison and a quarter
million dollar fine.
The 38-year-old Republican mayor is being held without bond because
there was a "serious risk" he would flee, authorities said.
A hearing will be held in Bridgeport Federal Court on July 31st.
Giordano was represented in court this morning by a public
defender.
FBI agents were searching Giordano's office and seizing records. The
office is closed to the public.
New Channel 8 reporter Erin Cox says authorities are also searching
Giordano's home. They arrived at approximately 9:00 a.m. Among the items
seized from Giordano's home was a satellite dish that was attached to the
roof.
Earlier in the morning Connecticut Chief State's Attorney John Bailey
told a News Channel 8 staff member the charges against Giordano "will
shock you."
Bailey says state charges could also be filed.
On July 18, Giordano announced he would not seek a fourth term in
office. He said he wanted to spend more time with his family. He was first
elected in 1995.
Giordano has taken heat for the failing economy in the city, which
resulted in a $60 million deficit and state takeover of finances.
In November, Giordano was soundly defeated in a bid to unseat Sen.
Joseph Lieberman.
Former State Representative and current State Republican Party Chairman
Chris DePino said in a statement "We are shocked and disturbed about the
arrest and charges lodged against Mayor Giordano. We are sorry for the
pain and distress that these events will cause his family and we are also
gravely concerned about the charges."
Giordano is not the first Waterbury mayor to face federal charges.
Joseph Santopietro was convicted on corruption charges in 1992. He served
more than six years in prison.
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